Franken Commends DARTS Learning Buddies Program on 15th Anniversary

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DARTS, a northern Dakota County nonprofit that provides aging resources, got a nod from Sen. Al Franken this week for the 15th anniversary of the intergenerational Learning Buddies program.

The DARTS Learning Buddies program places senior-aged volunteers in Dakota County elementary school classrooms to tutor students in a variety of subjects. Learning Buddies began in 1997 at  in Eagan with a handful of adults who read with children. The program now serves 28 schools in the area.

"I'm sure those kids will appreciate not only the academic help that you gave them, but also the interest you showed in their growth and their success," says Franken in his message.

Learning Buddies volunteers are credited with providing more than $110,000 in volunteer time to schools each year and helping students make significant gains in reading and math scores. 

“The DARTS Learning Buddies program provides a vital link between schools in need of help and community volunteers who want to help,” said Jo Lynn Bucki, Learning Buddies coordinator in a statement.  “Our wonderful volunteers look forward to working in classrooms just as much as the students look forward to seeing them."

Franken stresses in his video the importance of active seniors in our communities, and also puts in a plug for reauthorization of the Older Americans Act, which authorizes programs for older Americans throughout the country.

DARTS is already signing up new volunteers for next year. More information is available on the DARTS Learning Buddies webpage.