West End Center for Youth is a non-profit organization located at the corner of Patterson Ave and 13th Street. The center serves close to 100 children in the West End area of Roanoke and beyond providing after-school care with homework tutoring and other opportunities to enrich their lives. RCPC has had a relationship supporting the center since its beginning in 1979.

 

This time of the year we gather school supplies to help these children start the school year off to a good start. Each child will be provided with a bag full of supplies specific to their school and grade level. These families are struggling and the gift of a bag of supplies means so much. Please pick up a complete list of the supplies we need in the gathering area. You may also send in a donation for school supplies. Use our online giving option or mail a check to the church. Be sure to mark in the notes: WEC School Supplies. You can sponsor a child with what is requested by their teacher for about $60. All supplies need to be brought to the church by Sunday, July 31 in order for the individual bags to be prepared for distribution.

 

This year we are also looking for individuals or businesses who would like to sponsor a larger bulk donation. For instance, we need about 200 boxes of tissues for the supply bags. If you would like to order a case of tissues, a case of dry erase markers, a case of disinfecting wipes or a case of pencils, please contact Susan Kessler.

 

This is also a perfect time to consider serving as a homework tutor at the center for the school year. A homework tutor sits with a child and helps the child focus to complete his/her assignments, and coaches the children in reading, learning math facts or studying for a test. It is helpful for the center to have mature tutors who come on a regular basis. Even one afternoon a week or month is very helpful on a regular basis. If you would like more information about tutoring or would like to sign up, please visit our table in the Gathering Area or call Susan Kessler (540-312-2331).

 

I would also like to introduce you to our new Executive Director, Karen Pillis. Karen comes to the center from Family Services of Roanoke. She has worked with the center for a long time through the partnership the two organizations share. She knows the children and families and has a new vision for the center. Karen is currently looking for a part-time receptionist for the center. If you or anyone you may know might be interested in this position, please call the center for more information or talk to Susan.