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.
Why Volunteer?
- Build valuable relationships
- Give back to the community
- Add to your resume
- Gain experience and practical skills needed for your career
To Volunteer With Us, You MUST:
- Complete a background check (paid for by the Gus Bus)
- Commit to volunteering 2-3 hours per week
- Be able to get yourself to and from your placement site
- Commit to volunteering with us through the end of the semester
Our Opportunities:
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.
- To learn more and get started at Neighborhood Bus Stops or Afterschool Enrichment, email Grace Pohlmann at vpg9ml@jmu.edu
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.
- To learn more and get started at Neighborhood Bus Stops or Afterschool Enrichment, email Grace Pohlmann at vpg9ml@jmu.edu
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.
- To learn more and get started as an in-home tutor, email Jesse Dragovich at dragovjc@jmu.edu
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 2031 Deyerle Avenue, generally between the hours of 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday.
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.
If you’re interested in learning more about our program, please contact us at gusbus@jmu.edu or call 540-568-5251.