The White Plains Public Library had such success with its Reading Buddies and STEM Buddies programs for teens this summer, it will be expanding these programs into the fall along with its usual Do Gooders teen volunteer program. Applications are now open for White Plains teens entering nine grade through 12th grade this school year. Do Gooders is a general community service group; in Reading Buddies teens support younger students learning how to read; and in STEM Buddies high schoolers guide younger students in exploring the library’s STEM activities.
This summer, 80 teen volunteers completed 661 hours of community service between the three programs. The Do Gooders made 55 dog toys for Paws Crossed Animal Rescue in Elmsford, 15 baby blankets for Project Linus, 128 paracord bracelets for military charity Operation Gratitude, four ziploc bags full of earrings for a women’s shelter, and countless birthday cards and placemats for Meals on Wheels, according to the library. No applications or registrations are required to join the fall Do Gooders group. Meetings will be held on Tuesdays from 4-5:30pm on the following dates:
- September 3 and 24
- October 1 and 29
- November 12 and 26
- December 3 and 17
Teens must apply to the Reading Buddies and STEM Buddies programs where they will be working with younger students. Applications are due to the library at the Trove Compass Desk, complete with a parent/guardian signature, by September 18. Once teens are accepted, they must attend a training session for their program on September 24 from 4-5pm (Reading Buddies) or September 26 from 4-5pm (STEM Buddies). Reading Buddies sessions will be held every Wednesday from 4-5:30pm beginning in October; STEM Buddies will take place on Thursdays from 4-5:30pm beginning in September.
To apply for the Reading Buddies or STEM Buddies program, teens can visit the White Plains Public Library’s application site.
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