Pre-K KOREH Corner

Farewell From Pre-K KOREH Coordinator

By Talia Scharlin

Dear KOREH L.A. Family,

I wish to share that I have accepted a new position outside of KOREH L.A.  As of December 3rd, I will become Assistant Education Director in the Israel and Overseas Department of The Jewish Federation. I will help coordinate an innovative program that, while accomplishing other goals, breaks down boundaries and creates lifelong friendships.

Despite my excitement for my new adventure, I will miss working with you and seeing how all of you truly, positively affect each other. I have thoroughly enjoyed watching the volunteers, staff and LAUSD partners demonstrate passion, resolve, and kindness. Hearing about the bonds between reading partners has always been moving. Witnessing the lives of children and volunteers significantly improve has been continuously inspiring.

While working with our various volunteers, I have learned that Pre-K KOREH volunteers are particularly unique. Not everyone has the patience for young children, and while the bonds between reading partners are often evident (how many stories have I heard about children running up and hugging our volunteers?), working with preschoolers does not always bring immediate gratification. Hearing about this common experience reminds me of the young version of me (indeed, a version even younger than I am now). When my mother and father would read to me as a preschooler, I often did not want to sit and hear the story, but would instead quickly flip through the book, look at the colorful pictures, and close the book, ready for the next activity. Despite this apparent disinterest, somehow, a love of books became an integral part of me. While my parents' experience must have been frustrating at times, they still influenced me. I became an avid reader, and have spent the past few years trying to share this love of books with our community. From my experience and yours, therefore, the most important words I wish to leave with you are these: whether you see your impact today, tomorrow, or some time from now, keep volunteering. You are making a difference.

On a different note, regarding the state of our program, because Pre-K KOREH is only a few years old (in its preschool years!), we have recently hit a few growing pains. As many of you know, we are undergoing some changes regarding our partner schools and requirements for volunteers. Thank you for your patience as we resolve these challenges. The rest of the KOREH L.A. staff will be here to finalize any changes and ensure that you have a great experience. We will soon be able to fully focus again on the important business of working with preschool children to give them the reading readiness skills they need to succeed, and instilling in these young minds and hearts a true love of books.

Thank you again for taking responsibility for our city's children. Thank you for making the world a little better, and for devoting your time and energy to this fantastic program. And thank you for making a difference in my life along the way.

Warmly,

Talia