February Volunteer Spotlight: Jo

This month we spotlight Jo, a valued and appreciated volunteer.

What first brought you to 826?
History Between These Folds. This is one of my favorite books! I was actually just revisiting it last night. The authors’ stories and voices come together to write the most true and beautiful portrait of New Orleans that I know. They write the toads and the gardens.

What keeps you coming back?
I was going to say something here about getting to be another echo of the message to young people that their stories matter, their voices matter & helping to offer ways to make those stories tangible (in book and in written form!). And that’s true! But really, it’s just the kids that keep me coming back, who are tall in every way that they may be (for now) small. It’s really fun to get to work with them and something I look forward to every week.

What are some skills you have that help you out at 826 New Orleans?
I am stubborn – no way anyone’s getting a word spelled out of me!

What are you up to when you’re not volunteering with us?
Right now I work for the RTA, so I spend a lot of time riding the buses and streetcars. The stories I get to hear from our passengers and drivers are my 2nd favorite (1st being 826 stories, of course).

From the staff and the students of 826 New Orleans, we thank Jo for her generous support!