The Impact of Volunteering

The Impact of Volunteering: CAT tutors impact the lives of local children

When not busy with the usual classes and homework, about ten percent of the College’s student body take time out of their day to participate in the College Academy of Tutoring (CAT) Program. The CAT Program links students to at-risk children in the South Bend community and, according to CAT director Olivia Critchlow, “allows them to be positive, supportive figures in the lives of those who need it most.”

Political science major Anabel Castaneda ’12 has been working with the CAT program for two years, and loves it. Castaneda says, “When I see that a child that I have been working with excel it makes me feel so wonderful because I know how amazing these children are. Sometimes the child might not feel that he or she is smart enough and does not have the confidence to try new things. When I am able to show them that they can do it, they just keep going. The CAT program changes the children's lives.”

For many children, the CAT Program is the only tutoring program offered in their school. Saint Mary’s students travel to Coquillard Primary Center, Warren Primary Center, the St. Joseph County Public Library, and Lincoln Primary Center. Participants in the after-school programs range from third and fourth graders, to children with disabilities, and English as a Second Language (ESL) students. CAT volunteers provide help with mathematics, writing, reading comprehension, and assistance with homework.

Students gain a lot of beneficial experience from participating in the CAT Program. Critchlow explains, “For many, it can be relaxing to spend time off campus in a productive environment, where they are helping others. For many other students, volunteering with CAT is a great way to give back to those in need in the community while also feeling that they are making a positive difference in the world.”