April is a dedicated time to honor the amazing impact made by volunteers in nonprofit organizations across the country. Here at HOME WORKS!, volunteers are vital to helping our school-based family events run smoothly so teachers can focus on building trusting relationships with students’ families. In recognition of the many contributions of volunteers, we are celebrating with a spotlight of HOME WORKS! Volunteer, Trevor Yaroch. Read on to learn about how Trevor has been inspired to join the Family Engagement movement!
What motivates you to volunteer?
Volunteering my time is an easy way to give back to my community. I grew up in a very generous household – my parents were always willing to help others and through them, I have learned the importance of giving back.
What drew you to the HOME WORKS mission?
When researching a non-profit to get involved in, it was important to me that there be a real connection. Growing up, I attended a really small school. I graduated with just 74 other students and we did not get a lot of resources or tools to prepare us for higher education. While, personally, I was fortunate to have opportunities to overcome these setbacks, it really left me feeling like schools needed more support. I love that this work is equipping students and families with what they need to succeed in their education and beyond — that is something I am proud to be involved in.
What have you enjoyed the most about volunteering at HOME WORKS!?
It has been so rewarding seeing all the smiles at HOME WORKS! Family Events. You can really see the gratitude and appreciation from the families, students, teachers, and staff. While attending Hickey Elementary’s (SLPS) last Parent-Teacher Workshop, I saw how excited the students were to explore and continue learning outside of the classroom — this keeps me motivated and striving to continue to give back to my community.
What would you say to someone thinking of becoming a HOME WORKS! volunteer?
I would tell them to go for it! It has been such a great experience to work with the students, parents, and teachers. The kids want to learn and HOME WORKS! helps them do that — it is an amazing journey to watch the impact firsthand.
Trevor is a Financial Advisor at Renaissance Financial; an independent firm founded here in St. Louis. When asked about his work, Trevor says “we are able to help any and everyone. We do this by listening to our client’s goals, getting to know them, then building a plan, with the idea of working with good people and working with them for a long time.”
Are you interested in becoming a HOME WORKS! Volunteer? Email [email protected] for more information.