Summer 2019
Project Archives
Madeline B. with Big Brothers Big Sisters of ...

During Summer 2019, Madeline focused on volunteer recruitment with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa.

Madeline B. with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa
Summer 2019
Project Archives
Danny Cook with YSS

During Summer 2019, Danny worked to create a foundation for YSS University by gathering information about current training opportunities, organizing the data, and developing materials to better present these opportunities to staff.

Danny Cook with YSS
Summer 2019
Project Archives
Dakari Finister with Territory NFP

During Summer 2019, Dakari worked as a program evaluator and program facilitator with Territory NFP.

Dakari Finister with Territory NFP
Summer 2019
Project Archives
Annie Henson with Boys & Girls Clubs of ...

During Summer 2019, Annie created a program evaluation plan for Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa. The evaluation plan will act as a guide for BGCCI staff to use data to make more informed decisions for improved program quality.

Annie Henson with Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa
Summer 2019
Project Archives
Linh Nguyen with Variety - the Children's ...

During Summer 2019, Linh worked to support Variety - the Children’s Charity’s mobility program by identifying areas of improvement, locating recipients for bikes for a special fundraiser, and assisting with the different steps of the mobility program over the summer.

Linh Nguyen with Variety - the Children's Charity

Start Lighthouse

Jenna Picciano with Start Lighthouse

SUMMARY

Jenna worked as a Literacy Program Fellow fellow with Start Lighthouse. Start Lighthouse addresses the literacy crisis in the South Bronx with a three-pronged approach to create compelling, rewarding reading experiences for children and families. There, Jenna provided invaluable support to the launch of multiple projects including planning and executing a fundraising gala. 

OVERVIEW

  • Supported the Literary Adventures’ program logistics

  • Managed Start Lighthouse’s library (conducted research and managed review copies)

  • Supported the Executive Director with data collection by distributing and analyzing surveys to gather data about programs

  • Secured an event venue, caterer, and silent auction items, pro-bono for the gala 

  • Spearheaded the Young Professionals Council (YPC), composed of 14 leaders, to aid in the realization of the fundraiser 

  • Developed a communication plan to boost ticket sales through social media posts, celebrity endorsements, and personalized outreach to key stakeholders

  • Supporting the launch of the new Literacy Hub

IMPACT

Jenna impacted 900 students through the preparation, creation, and implementation of programming materials and workshops through our Literacy Hubs


Aura Valdez with Start Lighthouse

SUMMARY

Aura worked as a programming fellow with Start Lighthouse. Start Lighthouse addresses the literacy crisis in the South Bronx with a three-pronged approach to create compelling, rewarding reading experiences for children and families. There, she provided critical support in helping launch the organization’s first Literacy Hub in what was once an abandoned school library. Aura served as a thought partner to the executive director, collected student data, created curriculum for student workshops, and developed daily programming, allowing her to connect with youth through literature. Her passion and commitment led leadership at Start Lighthouse to offer her a full-time position at the end of the fellowship, becoming a core member of the organization’s founding team.

OVERVIEW

  • Facilitated student workshops with award winning children’s book authors and illustrators

  • Tracked relevant student data to understand proficiency levels and student needs 

  • Researched culturally relevant book titles and materials to support programmatic aims

  • Developed engaging, developmentally appropriate curricula for students from pre-k to eighth grade 

  • Created visual program materials using Canvas and Adobe Creative Suite

IMPACT

Aura worked with over 700 students, distributed over 1,200 books for students’ home libraries, facilitated over 20 workshops, and hosted 7 author and artist visits.