We are proud to celebrate and extend our deepest gratitude to the incredible volunteers who continue to strengthen the work of the Counseling In Schools and the school communities we serve through their time, care, and commitment.
Across every program, event, and school partnership, volunteers are not just an added support—they are an essential part of how CIS is able to serve students and families in meaningful, consistent, and joyful ways. Their presence expands what we are able to do each day: they bring additional hands in classrooms, extra encouragement for students who need academic or emotional support, and a powerful sense of community connection that deepens the impact of our work. With their help, we are able to create more personalized attention for students, more engaging programming, and more opportunities for young people to feel seen, supported, and celebrated.
A special thank you to our dedicated after-school tutor volunteers at I.S. 238Q, Olivia Walker and Shayra Shoshi, for their ongoing commitment to supporting our Community School Directors, teachers, and students. Whether helping students practice dance routines, supporting science and math homework, or joining in with Mr. Hero during volleyball practice, they consistently show up with patience, encouragement, and enthusiasm. Their support not only reinforces learning but also builds trust and confidence—helping students feel capable, motivated, and connected to their school community in lasting ways.
We also want to recognize the outstanding volunteers who helped make our annual two-day Collaboration in Action Conference a success. A heartfelt thank-you to Molly Vozick-Levinson, Atalanta Archangel, Janelle Newton, Alfred Munoz, Maggie McPherson, Kay Sheeger, Pamela Alcantara, Carla Lobato, Kiana Bilal-Mack, and Amanda Stecco for their dedication and behind-the-scenes support that ensured the conference ran seamlessly from start to finish. Their efforts made it possible to bring educators, partners, and community members together in a space of learning, reflection, and shared growth.
We are equally appreciative of Elsce Sullwald, Yasmara Dicen, and Yadhira Sierra, whose contributions helped make our Women’s History Month celebrations especially meaningful. They went above and beyond to ensure students felt seen, valued, and uplifted, adding creativity and heart to every moment of the celebration.
In addition, we would like to honor the many individuals who generously supported our school-wide community events throughout the year, including Meerab Chaudhry, Winson Chan, Jordan Hollender, Solim Grace Abouzi, Kristel Baligala, Konstantin Parfiryev, Fatama Berry, Danna Valencia, and Alfred Munoz. From welcoming families with warmth, to setting up events, serving food, and sharing professional experiences with students, their contributions helped bring our school celebrations to life. Their support was felt across moments such as the I.S. 238Q Winter Wonderland, panel discussions at KHELS Career Day, and the P.S. 47 Winter Cheer Celebration.
Simply put, CIS is stronger, more responsive, and more impactful because of our volunteers. They extend the reach of our staff, enrich the experiences of our students, and help build the welcoming, supportive environments that define our school communities. Their generosity of time and spirit allows us to do more than we could ever do alone—and ensures that students receive not only services, but genuine care and connection.
To all our volunteers: thank you for showing up, giving your time, and making a lasting difference. Your support helps create the moments that students remember long after the events are over, and your partnership is at the heart of everything we do.
Interested in volunteering? We would love to have you join us—your time and talents can help us continue building strong, supportive, and joyful school communities together. Sign up here!
