Year Three of Grace Church Volunteers Brings Lasting Impact to RICMS Students

The media center at the Rock Island Center for Math & Science (RICMS) is still buzzing every Tuesday during the Spring Forward Afterschool Program, thanks to the continued support of the dedicated volunteers from Grace Church in Rock Island.

Now in their third year, these dedicated volunteers bring warmth, enthusiasm, and a love of reading to students each week. Working closely with RICMS teacher Julie Hansen and church liaison Kris Leinicke, 12–16 volunteers help guide literacy activities that foster both learning and connection.

“The volunteers bring their own experiences, which helps them build lasting relationships with the kids,” said Hansen.

Now in their third year, the Grace Church volunteers continue to inspire a love for reading and connection that bridges generations, proving that the simplest acts of kindness can have the most lasting impact.