Leaders eye new direction as after-school program turns 20

 

By Rachel Pritchett, communicator

OLYMPIA — All agree: The After-School Tutoring Program at The Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd has changed many of the lives of the middle-school students it serves, as well as the volunteers who help run it.

So when the program turned 20, dozens from the large, suburban church turned out on Dec. 2 to celebrate, including Devin Hustoft, who needed and received tutoring when he was a sixth, seventh and eighth grader. Today, when he isn't acing advanced-placement classes in high school, he's helping the younger students who gather twice a week at Good Shepherd to do their homework.

"I'm trying to give back by becoming a tutor myself," Hustoft said.

Director Jennifer Meyer said she found unexpected fulfillment on the job. 

"This program has been such a blessing in my life," she said.

Longtime ASTP volunteer Dotty Fehring said, "Being with you people keeps me young. It is encouraging to be able to channel their energy in positive directions, and see them gain confidence in the ability to succeed in school and life."

Many were touched during the celebration when a video message from the program's first director, Barbara Robertson, was aired. Robertson is a missionary in Tanzania.

"Middle school is a funny time of your life when you're struggling as an adult, but not really," she said. "For myself, it brought me into a community of faith."

The initiative was begun two decades ago by Bishop Robert D. Hofstad, then a pastor at Good Shepherd and others after asking the community about needs of young people that weren't being met. ASTP quickly grew, with congregation members, parents and teachers volunteering not just with tutoring, but also as van drivers, activity helpers and snack-preparers.

The program currently serves about 18 young people.

Meyer and Bishop Hofstad hinted ASTP may be close to having run its course. Meyer said leaders are looking at  switching the focus to high-schoolers. 

Hofstad challenged the group to again look to the community, just as it did 20 years ago, "and ask what else is needed." 

Pictured top and below: 

Bishop robert D. Hofstad, left, joins leaders of the After-School Tutoring Program at The Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd of Olympia during a 20th-anniversary celebration Dec. 2. ASTP Director Jennifer Meyer is at center with white collar.

Meyer and Devin Hustoft, once an attendee and now a tutor