Some students who volunteer at Charleston’s Teen Reach gain more than the pleasure of helping others – they receive experience in their majors.

Teen Reach is currently seeking student volunteers with interests in community service and helping children.

“We’re looking for volunteers who are interested in helping kids with tutoring, recreation and life skills workshops,” said Bridget Johnson, program director.

Teen Reach’s staff and availability was reduced when state budget cuts to the Illinois Department of Human Services closed the after-school program for a month this summer.

“When we reopened, we had to stop being open on weekends and our staff went from 12 to seven,” Johnson said.

Although Teen Reach was closed for a month, Johnson said that parents did not complain.

“They were just happy that we were able to reopen,” Johnson said. “They were very understanding.”

Though their program is not limited to tutoring, Johnson said tutoring is its’ biggest need so the kids will be able to start the school year off on a “good foot.”

Also a benefit of Teen Reach, Johnson said, is the opportunity for college students seeking teaching certification.

“Students can gain student teaching hours by volunteering,” Johnson said. “We also take internships in related fields.”

Organizations are also welcome to volunteer.

“We get a lot of fraternities and sororities that offer assistance,” Johnson said. “They are always welcome to come and participate in our mentoring program.”

For more information about volunteering at Teen Reach, contact Bridget Johnson at (217) 345-8005.