"S.O.S"
Helping
Middle Schoolers
Stay on Course

 

Source of Success finishes school year on a high note

   Source of Success, an after school program in Caledonia, is celebrating the conclusion of another successful school year. SOS provides sixth and seventh grade students from Cal-Mum Middle School with one on one mentoring and assistance with school work, in a friendly home-like environment in the Gibson-Connor House. An outreach of First Presbyterian Church, SOS is a community ministry.

   The program runs in conjunction with the school calendar. In mid June, the students spent the week reviewing for their upcoming final exams. SOS Director Sharon Balonek said, "This has been an extremely successful year at SOS. The kids have developed better team building skills that resulted in positive relationships with their friends, parents and teachers. Honing their homework and study skills has led to improved productivity by the students and a drive to succeed."

   An officer from the Caledonia Police Department recently visited with the kids to review the rules of summer safety. On Saturday, June 3, the 2nd Annual SOS Run/Walk was held with more than 30 participants raising contributions to the program. Andy Forma came in at first place with last year’s winner, Danielle Harmon coming in at second. Mary Catherine Hamilton awarded the prize list at the conclusion of the event.

   On Thursday, June 8, everyone enjoyed an outdoor picnic to celebrate the year’s accomplishments! Barbara Bird, SOS Board of Directors President, presented Mrs. Balonek with flowers for all of her efforts with the kids this year. SOS will resume in September with the startup of the new school year.

   SOS operates on the generosity of donors. If you would like more information about SOS or would like to make a donation, please call Sharon Balonek , director, at 538-2003.

 

Middle School Principal Mr. Molisani attends the end of year SOS picnic that celebrates the kids’ accomplishments.

 

Barb Bird presents Sharon Balonek with flowers to thank her for her dedication to the kids.

 

Runners and walkers at the starting line for the second annual SOS Walk/Run.

 

 

   Source of Success is a program that provides middle schoolers with a comfortable environment in which to study, complete homework, conduct research, and socialize with peers under the supervision of a program director and a caring staff of volunteers.

   SOS can offer..
A one on one connection between students and volunteers that will assist students in focusing on their education.
A supervised environment conducive to learning and a block of time dedicated to homework completion and studying.
Academic support; volunteers will help students break down schoolwork into manageable tasks, locate resources, and prioritize work.
Personal support from volunteers who share their time, knowledge, and compassion with students.
Access to computers.
An opportunity for students to feel part of a team and to make friends.
Students are selected upon recommendations by the Sixth and Seventh Grade Teacher Teams.

    Anyone interested in volunteering or to request a volunteer packet, please call the SOS Administrator, Sharon Balonek at 538-6403.

 

   The Source of Success program, held in the Gibson-Connor House next to the First Presbyterian Church of Caledonia, began as a dream of the Gibson-Connor Ministry to bring to fruition a long-term mission project that would provide a needed service to the Caledonia - Mumford community.

   The Source of Success program provides middle schoolers with a comfortable environment in which to study, complete homework, conduct research, and socialize with peers under the supervision of a program director and caring staff of volunteers. The Gibson-Connor Ministry aims to help middle schoolers as well as provide community members with an opportunity to share their time and talent with these students.

   Middle schoolers experience increased academic demands and social pressure at a time when they are changing physically and emotionally and are often times unsupervised after school. The Source of Success program encourages students by offering a safe place which promotes positive messages regarding students' abilities and an understanding of the value of human connection and support.

   Our volunteers work in a comfortable homelike environment. Through the simple gesture of offering their time, skills, and compassion, volunteers remind participating students that they are valuable - a positive message that can resonate for a lifetime.

Volunteer Opportunities

Work one-on-one with student.
Bake and serve after school snacks.
Help with arts and crafts.
Walk students after School from Caledonia-Mumford School to the Gibson-Connor House.
Assist with group program ideas and presentations
Help with fundraising event.

 

Source of Success Board of Directors:

Barbara Bird Courtney Monahan Pam Baker
Nancy Reinert Brian Shaffer Kathryn Russ
Janet Russ-Clar Adrienne Ward Mary Drotar
Darcy Monacelli Guen Smith

Program Director: Sharon Balonek


is a nonprofit program emphasizing the power of connection,
compassion, and community in everyday life.

A Ministry of First Presbyterian Church of Caledonia
3080 West Main Street
Caledonia