Planting the Seeds

DARTS Learning Buddies program connects students with older adults

Are you looking for a rewarding volunteer experience that makes an impact in your community? Since 1997, the DARTS Learning Buddies program has served Dakota County communities by connecting older adults with elementary students to work together on reading, math and science classwork, share experiences, and learn from one another 1-2 hours each week throughout the school year. Gideon Pond, Rahn, Sky Oaks, Vista View and William Byrne are among 31 schools participating in this intergenerational program that has served more than 38,000 students and logged more than 70,000 volunteer hours. If you want to learn more about the Learning Buddies program or become a Learning Buddy, please visit dartsconnects.org/learningbuddies or call Erin Walloch at 651-234-2227.