Marion Cares After-School Programs Keep Kids Busy But Need Volunteers

Marion Cares has been giving kids a place to go after school though a program based where many children live.

The art classes, puppet shows, dance lessons and other activities provide a positive outlet for children living in mobile home parks and large apartment complexes, said Joe Polzin, the director of Marion Cares.

"Kids need something after school to give them a safe place, structure and other options to the things they might do otherwise, like playing video games or getting in fights," Polzin said.

Marion Cares, a faith-based organization, rents three units right in Azure Apartments to make the outreach more direct and embedded where it is needed.

The different classes are geared to different age ranges within the K-12 grades, and the program is looking for volunteers.

One opportunity is an art class for 2nd to 5th graders. The 7-week class begins on Tuesday, March 19 and meets every Tuesday from 4:30-5:30 p.m. at Azure Apartments, 690 Bentley Drive, Unit 10. You don't need to be skilled, just someone who is caring towards kids. You will assist an experienced art teacher with set up, attendance, mentoring kids through each project, and clean up.

You can contact joe@marioncares.org to get signed up.