A YEAR OF SERVICE
AmeriCorps VISTAs serve nationally to build capacity at local organizations that serve low income communities. At Turning the Page (TTP) they are fundamental to strengthening relationships with families and school staff and by developing long-lasting partnerships with local organizations, museums, and universities. VISTAs play a unique role in most aspects of TTP programs including volunteer outreach, development, communications, student curriculum development, and supporting Carpe Librum bookstores. Our latest VISTA Spotlight shines on Digital Capacity and Parent Engagement VISTA, Eryn Matheny.
Hometown: Chicago
Favorite hobby: Reading/Traveling
Favorite childhood book: Homemade Love by Bell Hooks
Hats I wear at TTP: As the Partnerships and Parent Engagement Specialist, my responsibilities include, managing Mobile Meetings with Legacy parents, building relationships with both teachers and parents, building book lists and helping facilitate our monthly book distributions.
Why I chose to serve with AmeriCorps VISTA: Community service has been always been important to me, so I decided to take a year away from teaching to serve! I chose Turning The Page, because I’m passionate about literacy and I love helping children find joy in learning!
Most interesting aspect of my service with TTP: I am super excited about helping children build their own at home library with our monthly book distributions.
What I’ve learned about myself through service: I’ve learned a lot about myself during my short time with TTP. The experiences I’ve had with Legacy teachers, parents, and scholars has truly re-lit my passion for education and more specifically, literacy. Being a TTP VISTA during this time has also allowed me to learn so much about the politics of education. Now my brain is constantly thinking of ways I can provide a positive and impactful experience for Black and Brown students.
What I hope to gain from my time with TTP: I hope at the end of my VISTA year, I am able to walk away with lasting relationships with TTP and the families we serve. I also hope that I am able to take all that I’ve learned at TTP and apply that to help other children and families increase their joy for reading!