It has been more than 6 months since NJ schools closed in March due to the pandemic. Even though hybrid plans are currently being offered at some schools, the majority of teaching and learning are still being done remotely. For students from low-income families, lacking devices or internet access has become a significant barrier to their school learning. The volunteers at Raritan Valley AYLUS stepped up to help peers in need. Throughout the summer, volunteers fundraised through tutoring. While other teens were watching Independence Day fireworks or spending time with family at the beach during weekend time, our volunteers worked diligently. Penny by penny, together, we raised more than $2,000, including $600 donated by branch leader Benjamin Hong from his summer job income. With the fund, we purchased 4 Chromebooks, school supplies, and gift cards, including $500 gift cards for a student’s family under financial hardship. On September 12, 2020, on behalf of all volunteers, branch leaders Benjamin Hong, Tarun Sivakumar, and Amy Xu delivered these items to the students in need. It is rewarding to know our efforts made a difference.
Volunteers: Benjamin Hong, Amy Xu, Tarun Sivakumar, Raymond Hu, Catherine Yang, Dalina C, Kevin Ho, Jonathan Qi, Jessica Hong, Kevin Xu, Grace Hu, Allan Gao, Sophie L, Jessica Lee, Evie Shen, Matthew Ding, Summer He, Sam Altman, Chloe Zhou, Alvin Zhang, Ethan Zhou, Alicia Xu, Kyle Xu, Timothy Jiao
