In a cozy corner of Villaggio at Route 66’s after-school program, the room buzzed with curiosity, laughter and just a bit of fairy dust.
The children had gathered to read Fairy Science, an enchanting picture book that blends the whimsy of fairy tales with the real-world magic of STEM. In the story, Esther – a young fairy scientist – investigates why a forest tree has stopped growing. While the other fairies rely on magic, Esther uses observation, hypothesis and experimentation to get to the root of the problem. It’s a joyful reminder that science can be just as magical as a wand.
But the learning didn’t stop on the page.
With the help of three dedicated UPS volunteers, Jake, Carmen and Imateo, the children transformed into creators of their own fantastical worlds. Inspired by Esther’s curiosity and scientific spirit, they imagined entire environments and invented creatures powered by both magic and logic. It was a vibrant mix of learning and creativity.
Since 2022, Jake, Carmen and Imateo have volunteered week after week, dedicating two hours each visit to help with homework, lead read-alongs and support daily activities. What started as a company-sponsored volunteering effort has grown into something much more personal.
“They’ve really grown fond of the children here,” said Brenda Clendenin, Villaggio’s after-school program assistant. “They bring consistency, care and heart to everything they do – and the kids can feel it. They’re not just volunteers anymore, they’re part of our extended family.”
The trio has built relationships with the kids that go far beyond surface-level interactions. Their presence is steady, trusted and deeply valued.
“Hope’s programs are designed to uplift and support every child, emotionally, academically and socially,” said Tairen Kessee-Broadway, Youth Program Manager for Hope through Housing Foundation. “But it’s our volunteers who help us stretch further, love deeper and reach more kids in more meaningful ways.”
Linda Will, a member of our Women of Hope volunteer group and the UPS team’s manager in Rancho Cucamonga, played a key role in encouraging her employees to give back.
“Linda has always encouraged her team to get involved,” Carmen said. “We took her advice and now we can’t imagine not being part of this.”
The UPS volunteers say their time at Villaggio has been as impactful for them as it has for the children.
“It’s not just about giving our time,” Imateo said. “It’s transactional, in the best way. We learn how to communicate with kids, how to be encouraging, how to stay patient. It’s just as fulfilling for us as it is for them.”
Jake, who has experience helping in his mother’s classroom, knows how important it is for children, especially boys, to see consistent, positive male role models in their lives.
“Kids need to see positive male role models, people who show up, listen and stay consistent,” Jake shared. “It’s not just about helping with homework. It’s about being someone they can count on.”
Children with strong, caring adult influences, including male mentors, tend to do better academically, socially and emotionally. They’re more likely to express their feelings in healthy ways, regulate their emotions and build confidence in their identities.
As the fairy scientists of Villaggio dreamed up glittering worlds powered by science, and as their UPS mentors stood by their sides encouraging every wild and wonderful idea, one thing became crystal clear:
Volunteers aren’t just helping kids dream bigger. They’re helping Hope grow farther.