"There is nothing better than working with the after school Book Buddies program. It’s not because it’s easy, because it isn’t always. But it is because of the difficult times, that it makes the rewards that much sweeter. 

Last year I was working with a boy that was, at first, difficult and uncooperative. Then I found out the family had been hot lined. We continued to work together and one day, when he got up to leave, he gave me a big beautiful smile, a big hug and told me he loved me. Now, this didn’t happen because I’m so great, but because his need was so great. And, he didn’t mean so much he loved me, but he was using the only words he knew to say-thanks for seeing me and thanks for your focused attention on just me. Now that felt amazing and that’s why I volunteer."

Ruth Huelskamp 

"I have volunteered with Book Buddies since it started and before that served in the classrooms. 

Book Buddies not only helps kids improve their reading, but gives them much needed one on one time with an adult who is willing to listen, hear how their day went, play a game with them, and just show them they are valued. 

These kids often don’t get the attention they need due to unstable living conditions, absent parents, parents working extra jobs as they try to make ends meet, other siblings, and everything in between. 

I volunteer at DCA because I truly feel I am making a difference. 

I often say that when the Dream Center comes to mind, I picture the hand of God over the building as I know he loves seeing children and struggling families being helped!"

Grandma Janet Clark