Volunteers of the Month – May 2025
Ron Scott
What motivated you to start volunteering at School on Wheels?
Four years ago, I wrapped up an exciting 40-year career in Human Resources. I reached a point where I wanted to give back and make a meaningful impact in others’ lives. Throughout my adult life, I’ve had the joy of working with youth in various roles—youth director, Big Brother, coach, and camp counselor. It only made sense for me to connect with a youth organization, and among the many I discovered, School On Wheels really captured my heart. My passion for helping young people lined up perfectly with their mission of providing academic tutoring and companionship to students who are experiencing homelessness. After a short wait, I was matched with Judith, a sweet fifth grader, and we instantly clicked! My silly side and sense of humor helped bring her out of her shell, and we always have fun together, no matter what we’re chatting about. We’ve already made some wonderful memories!
Can you share one experience you had with a student that makes you smile?
One moment I treasure is when I surprised Judith and her family with a special birthday cake— seeing her light up with joy was priceless! And just recently, she even beat me at “Concentration,” a fun card game that tests our memory skills. I started a tradition with her saying: “Judith! What’s the favorite part of my day?” She has learned that her reply is to be: “When I simile” – and she immediately lights up. She can be angelic!
What advice would you give to a new volunteer at School on Wheels?
To anyone thinking about volunteering, my best tip is to focus on building a relationship first, rather than stressing over academic achievements. I’ve found that Judith really enjoys our time together and has come to trust me, which makes learning those tough subjects a little easier. For her and many students, the relationship is the most important part of the journey. We always look forward to our weekly meetups, no matter what subjects are on the agenda.
What have you learned from your student?
Working with Judith has taught me so much! I’ve realized that everyone learns at their own pace and in their own way. Learning can be a bit of a challenge for Judith, but she’s always ready to give it a shot, even when things get tough. I’ve learned to be more creative and patient in our sessions. Having Judith’s mom there to encourage us both has also been a wonderful support throughout this experience!
Quynh Tien Le
What motivated you to start volunteering at School on Wheels?
In my culture, the noblest profession is one that nourishes the mind, body, and soul of the next generation. I come from a long line of educators who have taught me the importance of nurturing young minds. I am a former teacher who misses the classroom, so School on Wheels helps me to stay close to the work that matters most.
What advice would you give to a new volunteer at School on Wheels?
There is nothing more important than building the next generation of leaders.
What inspires you to overcome any challenges that arise with tutoring?
Every student I’ve worked with at School on Wheels, including Sadie, is brilliant. The students inspire me to continue volunteering with School on Wheels.
What have you learned from your student?
I have learned much more from Sadie than she has learned from me. Sadie has taught me many important life lessons such as how to stand up to bullies and how to live life to the fullest. Sadie enjoys all that life has to offer and she arrives at our session full of stories from her adventures at school and at home. Sadie also shares with me her strategies on how to tell bullies to be more respectful of one’s space and feelings. Sadie inspires me to be brave!
Kyra Rude
What motivated you to start volunteering at School on Wheels?
I love working with kids and years ago I heard the local coordinator for School on Wheels interviewed on the radio and asking for volunteers. I signed up that same week!
What advice would you give to a new volunteer at School on Wheels?
I like to keep small toys, like pocket pinball, in my tutoring bag – quick play games that make fun breaks in between lessons.
What inspires you to overcome any challenges that arise with tutoring?
Knowing that the connection I make with these kids is often just as important as doing homework helps keep sessions fun.
What have you learned from your student?
To not give up! We keep pushing until we work through those math problems!