Get to know our volunteer of the month, Yunitza!
What do I do in my role as a volunteer?
I support the daycare teachers by helping supervise the children, maintaining a clean and safe environment, and assisting them during daily activities. I also spend time interacting with the children, playing with them and supporting their routines.
When did you begin volunteering at MPNH?
I started volunteering on March 9th, and I currently volunteer three days a week.
Why do you volunteer?
I volunteer because I want to contribute to the community through my passion for education. In this case, I do it through early childhood, which I believe is fundamental for the development of future adults. I also enjoy learning, and this experience has been a great opportunity for personal and professional growth.
Can you share a story or instance where you felt you made an impact?
One moment when I felt I made an impact was during daily activities, when I supported the children in what they needed, whether it was helping them complete a task, guiding them during playtime, or encouraging them to interact with others. Through this support, I could see how they became more confident and engaged.
Coming from a background in teaching teenagers, this experience has helped me understand the importance of early childhood in the development of social and learning skills. It has also given me the opportunity to connect with children and better understand their way of learning and interacting with the world.
Your favorite memory at MPNH?
One of my favorite memories is a community lunch where I had the opportunity to share and connect with other people from different cultural backgrounds. I also helped tidy up at the end, and the environment was very pleasant and welcoming.
I also really enjoy my time at the daycare, especially when we go to the “Gem Island” with the children. I hide small gems, and they run happily to find them like a treasure. I also enjoy going to the park with them and seeing how they get excited about the changing seasons, especially in spring.
Another moment I really love is when we come back from the park and the children greet everyone in the center’s hallway. It creates such a warm and friendly atmosphere.
Feedback from staff/participants:
Yunitza is committed to volunteer three times a week. She is cheerful, and has the great energy to play with children. When we take children to the parks, she is an extra adult helping with the outing responsibilities. Her volunteer work includes, reading books, participation of doing art and crafts with children, light house keeping duties and play with children in the playground rain or shine.