We’ve had some exciting staffing changes this summer! Over the next few months, we’ll be introducing you to new School on Wheels staff members so you can learn more about the people who make our programs run successfully! Today we’re highlighting Arielle Hirt, our Volunteer Coordinator.
What is your role at School on Wheels?
I’m the Volunteer Coordinator! I onboard, schedule, and communicate with our, nearly 400 awesome volunteers who make our tutoring programs possible.
What did you do before you came here?
Prior to School on Wheels I’ve worked with youth in leadership development programs at Camp Tecumseh YMCA. More recently I was the Volunteer Coordinator at a small Indianapolis not for profit focused on transforming abandoned houses into home ownership opportunities for low income families. For the past two years I worked as a Program Coordinator for School on Wheels at sites like Family Promise and Salvation Army.
Why did you decide to join the School on Wheels team?
I chose School on Wheels because it is the perfect melding of my passions for youth and for aiding underserved communities. I’m excited to be a part of this team because, with the support of our volunteer tutors, we are able to empower kids with educational opportunities that can help shift the trajectory of their future!
What’s your favorite thing about your job?
As a former Program Coordinator, I loved to see how excited kids were to participate in School on Wheels. I had one kindergarten student who showed up in his PJs and slippers every evening. He was so excited for tutoring that he would sprint into the room and literally skid on the linoleum floor with momentum! Now, as the Volunteer Coordinator I love to share that story of excitement with volunteers who are the reason our kids are so eager to participate!
Can you share one of your favorite tutoring stories
When Marco’s tutor was looking for a game to play with together she asked, “Marco, have you ever played Connect Four?” to which Marco replied, “Nope. I’ve only played Connect Three.”
What’s one thing that people would be surprised to know about you?
The MTV show “Made” once came to my teeny-tiny high school and I auditioned with the intent of being made into a drummer! Unfortunately, I wasn’t selected.
