David Pratt is a navy veteran with a passion for teaching.
After retiring from a career in business, David found a new purpose when he volunteered with the AmeriCorps Seniors Foster Grandparent Program.
Now, David spends his free time helping elementary students master their skills in the classrooms in northwest Vermont. As a volunteer with an after-school club, he offers tips and advice to students learning about photography.
“David is a ray of sunshine,” teacher Laura Sullivan noted in David’s annual volunteer evaluation. “He arrives on time or early for his scheduled days and he often visits with students at recess before he comes in. David is always respectful of students and staff members. He is always eager to joke with kids, read with the kids, and engage in their learning.”.
And David’s students agree.
“He’s an awesome teacher,” said Charlotte, a student in one of David’s classes. “He makes kids laugh and he likes to read with kids, too.”
For David, the act of volunteering benefits him just as much as the students he mentors.
“Ageing is a process, we all know,” David said. “In that the more you do or the more you give, it gives it back to you. And I really think that helps in longevity.”