Work with Elementary School Students
Every fall and spring semester, the Gus Bus seeks to recruit dozens of JMU students to work as volunteers on our mobile classroom vehicles, at our elementary school sites, and with our in-home tutoring program. Some university students volunteer with us to complete required hours for their program major or classes, while others seek general experience working with school-aged children. We require that all classroom volunteers and tutors volunteer for a minimum of 2 hours per week for a full semester.
Neighborhood Stops
- Assist Gus Bus teachers in neighborhoods throughout Harrisonburg. K-5th grade students participate in learning activities, check out books, practice reading, and receive food bags.
Afterschool Enrichment Programs
- Assist Gus Bus teachers at school sites where we provide structured play, engaging academic and enrichment activities as well as project-based learning and reading support.
In-Home Tutoring
- As needed and available, K-5th grade students are enrolled and paired with an in-home tutor for up to two semesters. Volunteer tutors support homework completion and improvement in math and literacy skills.
Group Volunteering
Our occasional or yearly volunteer needs are a great way for fraternities/sororities, social clubs, and other campus organizations to schedule a rewarding group volunteer experience. Individuals are also welcome to participate in any of the following events/opportunities.
Community Events
- The Gus Bus is the beneficiary of several fundraising events and participates in many community events. Our biggest annual fundraising events – Touch-a-Truck and The Lucky Duck Race – take place in the spring. Volunteers are welcome to help at these events.
Food Bag Preparation
- Through our partnership with the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank, we can offer bagged staple foods to Gus Bus families at our neighborhood stops. Volunteers can assist with preparing food bags at Gus Bus offices at 220 University Blvd. generally between the hours of 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday.
If you’re interested in learning more about volunteering for the Gus Bus, please contact us at gusbus@jmu.edu or call 540-568-5251.