Do you love reading and everything about the literary world? Do you want to spread the love of reading to young children? Want to earn volunteer hours and leadership skills along the way?
Let me introduce you to one of my favourite programs that the Calgary Public Library offers. Reading Buddies is a chance to work with students in Grades 1-3 to teach them the true power of the literary world. If you are in Grades 7-12, then you can definitely volunteer for this program. Volunteers are especially needed at the Shaganappi and Alexander Calhoun libraries. If you would like to volunteer for this program (which I highly encourage), just email tammy.profili@calgarypubliclibrary.com or kim.wagner@calgarypubliclibrary.com for more information.
I personally have been volunteering with the Reading Buddies program for the past four years and have enjoyed every minute of it and have 
been through so many eye-opening experiences along the way. My favourite would have to be the time when I was buddies, with the sweetest little girl who I believe had cerebral palsy. She was honestly very communicative once you got to know her, and enjoyed all sorts of literature. She could also beat me at a game of Pictionary any day as her drawing skills far exceeded mine. I’ll never forget the day we were reading a story about a fairy who granted wishes. When I asked her what her wish would be, she replied with “nothing, I like the way I am.” This was a truly touching moment which I will never forget.