demonstrate their affection by cheering and hugging. “I literally got a hug from many of the boys, especially on Mondays.
As the weeks went by, I realized I was an important part of their experience. All those small moments, each lasting a few
seconds, were together the biggest ‘thank you’ I could have imagined,” said Brij.
Oliver Leeds ’15, a junior at Hotchkiss, said “It was fantastic to be part of a community where my positive attitude helped
the boys enjoy each day. Horizons allowed me an experience to work with people in a unique and special way. I had never
worked with children in such an intimate manner.” One week Oliver had to miss a few days of the program. When he returned
to the classroom, an enormous cheer went up that could be heard down the corridor!
It’s the small moments that build connection and memories. Lindsay and Debi asked their first graders to create a book for
the volunteers. Each page started with “Thank you for…” and the boys completed it with a sentence or drawing. The first
graders were grateful that the volunteers read a book, helped with math, sat next to them at lunch. “This was a very special
gift,” Frances said. “The book was so nice, but the actual relationships that I developed was something I never expected.” M
Meg Sheridan is Executive Director of Horizons at Saint David’s.
“It’s the small moments that build connection and memories.”
Saint David’s alumni assist the classroom teachers with all aspects of the program, working closely with the boys.
Last year’s first grade Horizons cohort, with alumni volunteers and teachers Lindsay Buhr and Debi Germann.
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