"...Through Christ Who Gives Me Strength"

by Bethany Larson

I got the chance to sit in the R.E.A.L room last week while Miss Miriam was gone. I found myself sitting and listening to the hum of the students reading with their tutors, observing how both the students and the tutors engaged in the stories . All of them were diligently following along.

As I eavesdropped on the tutor and student pair sitting closest to me, I heard., “You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.” This had been spoken by Marlenia, tutor of first grader Amara.

Marlenia went on to explain to Amara how Christ can help us through all things, even mastering a difficult story. Marlenia used this prime opportunity of Amara being discouraged about not mastering a story to remind her of God’s love for her.

Marlenia is high school student that volunteers at the ILC a couple times a week as a tutor in the R.E.A.L room and a book buddy in the Read room.

“The most important thing about volunteering for me is not only being a role model for the kids, but being a friend to them as well,” said Marlenia.

The Impact Learning Center has many goals for students as readers. We want them to become better readers and develop a passion for reading. Yet, the primary goal is to still love children and show God’s love for them. Thanks to dedicated staff and volunteers like Marlenia, we are accomplishing all of these goals!