For the past 60 years, ECS4Kids has walked hand-in-hand with the community we serve as we strive to provide quality early learning as a means to create multi-generational impact for our families. And this would not be possible with the dedicated support of volunteers like Jennifer Parker! She took a quick break from reading to our little ones to share her passion for literacy and her longstanding relationship with our Green Cove center.
How did your relationship with ECS4Kids begin?
I was a librarian here in Green Cove for 37 years. During that time, the Center Manager, Marisol, approached me about providing story time to the kids here. After my first visit, I fell in love and started coming regularly. Once I retired in 2024 and became the President of the Elks Lodge, I suggested we utilize the Beacon Grant gift the ECS4Kids’ Green Cove center with books in hopes of providing a little at-home library for all of the kids because my years of experience as a librarian taught me that many underserved families don’t have access to books. The Beacon Grant supports my life mission to promote literacy and encourage families to read to their children.
What has been the most rewarding moment of your volunteer experience with ECS4Kids?
Just seeing their faces light up when they make a connection with a book. Lasty year, a student named Pharaoh, said, “When I see my books at home, I think about you.” You just never know the difference a book can make in the life of a kid, just like you have no idea how big of a wave your little ripple in the pond might make. You see, books carry you beyond your everyday life and help to inspire you.
What advice would you give to someone who was thinking about volunteering?
Just do it. Be present in the moment and I promise you: you’ll get more back than what you put in. And remember, all kids are our kids. You can’t fix the world, but you can do your part to fix your corner.
