Beacon District

Sharon UMC is partnered with Griggs Elementary School in Poplar Branch and Jarvisburg Elementary in Jarvisburg. Sharon has truly been engaged in the lives of children by providing books for the “Give Five – Read Five” summer reading program, as well as funding Each One Read One Reading programs during the school year. They have provided school supplies as well as basic needs items for children throughout the school year. Many of the good folks at Sharon volunteer as proctors for end of grade testing, volunteers as readers and mentors and, during a time when we see more teacher assistant positions being defunded, they act as volunteer teacher aids. They are a visible presence in the school, eating with children and assisting the children and staff in creative relationships, and through pragmatic daily support. Sharon is transforming the world around them!

Riverside United Methodist Church is happy to partner with J.C. Sawyer Elementary School. Members volunteer weekly as tutors for a 3rd grade reading program. In 2014-2015, the church donated over 100 books, proctored end-of-grade testing, supplied snacks and clothing, and sustained a very healthy backpack ministry. At Christmas, the church celebrated “Undie Sunday” when underwear, mittens, and scarves were collected for needy students. Members look forward to expanding their support for the school even further.  This is transformational ministry for the students, for the community, and for the great folks of Riverside UMC!

Newland United Methodist Church in Elizabeth City averages 70 people in worship.  We partner with Northside Elementary School.  Every year we collect school supplies for students, give new and gently used books for the “Give 5 – Read 5” program, and donate new and gently used winter coats for children so they will not be cold.  Members of Newland also volunteer as proctors for beginning of year and end of year tests.  Northside also gives us a list of students who live near Newland who are in need of assistance for Christmas.  We give each student a few gifts, and the family also receives a meal so that they can celebrate and have a nice Christmas.  This year we began tutoring students for reading at the school.  When we were told that many of the students did not have a means of transportation to get to other places offering tutoring, we asked if we could come to the school and offer it.  We received a resounding YES!  Thirteen of us are tutoring 38 students every Tuesday and Thursday from 3:00-4:00pm.  We are very thankful to have this opportunity to serve students in our area.