Celebrating Ordinary People Who Make Extraordinary Impact for Volunteer Appreciation Week

 

From April 19 to April 25 this year, Volunteer Appreciation Week gives us a moment to recognize the people who quietly power so much good in our community. Volunteers bring extraordinary support and stamina in expanding United Way Broward's mission — neighbors helping neighbors and giving their time, skills, and compassion to uplift each other. Their impact is felt in classrooms, food pantries, community centers, and countless moments of connection that often are unseen but never are unfelt.

At United Way Broward, volunteers help children discover the joy of reading, support families facing economic hardships, and strengthen the social fabric of our neighborhoods. They bring the belief that every person deserves opportunity. And we love our volunteers because they show up — not for recognition, but because they care.

This week, we’re spotlighting one of our dedicated volunteers at Gulfstream Academy, United Way Broward’s first Community Partnership School in Hallandale Beach. Gulfstream Academy is a unique elementary and middle school where academics, health services, family support, and community resources come together under one roof.

As a UCF-certified Community Partnership School™, it provides wraparound services, so students overcome barriers, stay engaged in learning, and thrive both inside and outside the classrooms. Volunteers play a vital role in this model — offering mentorship, literacy support, enrichment activities, and steady encouragement that students can count on.

One of these volunteers is Bonnie, a retired educator, lifelong community servant, and passionate advocate for young readers. Her story reflects what makes volunteers extraordinary: They see a need, and they take action without hesitation.

The following Q&A with Bonnie highlights her journey, her reasons to volunteer, and the impact she makes every Monday in the classrooms at Gulfstream Academy.

 

 

Q: What first motivated you to start volunteering with young readers?

Bonnie: I’ve been a volunteer my entire life. As a child, I was a Girl Scout, and I learned early about the value of serving others. Later, when I lived in Colombia for 25 years, I co‑founded the first bilingual school in our town and worked with pediatric service groups. When I moved back to Broward, I became a teacher and continued volunteering. Helping children, especially with language and reading, always has been part of who I am. I understand literacy, I understand the challenges kids face, and if I have something to offer, I want to offer it.

Q: What’s your favorite part of your weekly time with the students?

Bonnie: My favorite moment is when I’m leaving and the kids ask ‘You coming on Monday?’ This question tells me they felt a difference — whether academically, socially, or emotionally. It means there was a connection. Knowing they want me back shows me the time I have given makes a big difference.

Q: Describe a moment that made you think: This is what makes every minute worth it.

Bonnie: There are so many moments every week, but one that stands out was last year when the students took a test after I’d been working with them. Every single student improved exponentially. Seeing their growth, seeing their pride, and then being able to celebrate with a pizza party was a very special moment. But truly, every week brings a moment like this one.

Q: How do the kids inspire you?

Bonnie: Trying to get them to be their best inspires me to be my best. No matter what challenges they face, they show up, they try, they grow. Their effort pushes me to keep giving my best.

Q: What would you say to someone who feels they don’t have enough time or experience to volunteer?

Bonnie: In no uncertain terms, it is not the quantity of time — it’s the quality. Nobody has hours and hours to spare. But whatever short time you can give, give it with your heart. Everyone has something to offer. Maybe you can’t lift boxes anymore, but you can greet people at the door. Maybe you love reading, cooking, or working with kids. There always is a way to help. And the payback is incredible. You absolutely get more than you give.

 

 

Bonnie’s experience is a reminder of how supporting children at a young age shapes their entire future. When volunteers sit beside a struggling reader, celebrate a small win, or help a child feel valued and affirmed, they’re improving reading scores, and they’re building confidence, resilience, and opportunity.

In communities where people face economic challenges, volunteers help fill critical gaps, and United Way Broward is very proud to mobilize volunteers who bring their unique skills, their stories, and their whole selves to make our community stronger.

Volunteer Appreciation Week is a both celebration and an invitation. Join us! Your time as a volunteer will change thousands of lives. Whether you have one hour per week or one afternoon per month, your presence matters. Your skills matter. You matter.

Become a volunteer with United Way Broward, and like Bonnie, help create a bright future for our people in our great community.

Get started today: Connect with other people, change lives, and contribute to something greater.