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Program Spotlight
Bricker Elementary in Colorado Springs, CO
Bricker Elementary is one of the 17 sites coordinated by Harrison School District # 2—Title I, which is celebrating its 15th year as a Books for Ownership program! The school district serves more than 2,192 children ages 3–11.
Before the end of last school year, Bricker students were read to by a group of 'high-flying' volunteers—service men and women from the nearby Shriever Air Force Base. The event featured on the base's web site. Read the full article below.
Schriever’s community outreach program provides volunteer opportunities
 Curious smiles fill the room as a story about a confused chameleon with an identity crisis is brought to life by an Airman reading the story. The chameleon, who inherits characteristics from a variety of animals, finally decides he's happiest being himself at the end, providing an important message for the children.
Staff Sgt. Jeremy White of the 22nd Space Operations Squadron, who took time to read to the children at Bricker Elementary School, said he was happy to volunteer his time.
"To me, it's important for the kids and the future we provide for them," Sergeant White said.
The community outreach program provides volunteer opportunities for Schriever personnel who want to give a little something back to the community.
Shannon Golden, a second grade teacher and Reading is Fundamental coordinator for Bricker Elementary, said that having volunteers engages the children and provides a valuable service.
 "It's important to have, not just the military community, but the local community involved because it builds a foundation for stronger relations within these communities and our schools," Ms. Golden said.
Reading to schoolchildren is one way volunteers get involved with the local community. Military and civilian volunteers also recently visited Ellicott Elementary School to assist teachers and staff with a bicycle safety event for the school's fourth graders.
Lycrecia Ouellette, a fourth grade teacher at Ellicott Elementary, helped organize the event and coordinated with Schriever staff.
A course with various obstacles at the school's playground was designed to provide important lessons on safe bicycle riding. A volunteer stood by to ensure the children utilized each obstacle correctly and safely.
"We really appreciate the volunteers who come out," said Mary Bitney, a fourth grade teacher at Ellicott Elementary. "A lot of these children have a family member that's serving in Iraq or Afghanistan right now, so it's nice to have that involvement by our military community."
Senior Airman Michael Grimm of the 50th Civil Engineer Squadron, came with his own bicycle and helmet to share the experience of the bicycle course with the children.
"It seemed like the children really enjoyed their time out here," Airman Grimm said. "Just seeing the smile on their face, you can't ask for anything better."
Source: Martinez, Staff Sgt. Daniel. "Schriever's community outreach program provides volunteer opportunities." Schriever.af.mil, June 3, 2008.
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