VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

This month we introduce you to Jon Christopherson who joined Aspire as a volunteer in the spring of 2021. Jon is teaching GED preparation online. Jon is a native of Dallas born in Oak Cliff and a long-time resident of Lakewood. Motivated to serve Aspire by a long-time volunteer Jon brings to Aspire a love of helping others. Our volunteers come to us with varied backgrounds and careers and Jon is a great example of the special people who serve our students.

PERSONAL LIFE

• What is your background? Family growing up. Where are you from? Have you lived in different cities?

I grew up in Oak Cliff and graduated from Kimball High School.

• Growing up, what did you do for fun or hobbies? Do you have any hobbies now?

Baseball, cycling, golf, and music.

• How long have you lived in the area?

My whole life, 60 years. I live in Lakewood now.

• Did you go to university or college? Field of study?

Graduated from SMU with a degree in Literature.

VOLUNTEERING

• When did you begin volunteering with Aspire (LIFT or ABERG)?

Before last semester.

• What has the Aspire experience been like for you?

Very rewarding. Have met a lot of great people. Love the students.

• Have you done any other volunteer work aside from Aspire?

North Texas Food Bank, Boy Scouts.

• What motivated you to volunteer? / What sparked your interest in volunteering at Aspire?

Long-time volunteer Aleen Johnson got me involved just before she passed at 99 years old.

• What do you hope to accomplish by volunteering at Aspire?

Help students better their lives and the lives of their families.

• How has online teaching changed your experience with the students, if any?

A better understanding of my neighbors.

• What do you enjoy most about your classes?

Interacting with students. They are very inspiring.

• What makes you the proudest of your students?

Their persistence and hard work.

• What do you hope for your students?

Better lives, achieve their dreams.

• Is there any more information you would like to share for this story?

I have been cancer free for two years after being diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer. I have gone through chemo and surgeries. My initial diagnosis was on average two more years to live. Changed my life. Getting involved with Aspire continues to be a source of inspiration. Watching how hard the students work motivates me. I will continue to teach at Aspire and I can’t thank the students enough for their inspiration.

We are grateful to Jon and the many volunteer teachers who live in and outside North Texas. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer for Aspire, please contact Cassy Lujan, Volunteer Director, at CassyLujan@AspireToLearn.org.

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Important Dates

• 08-01-2022
   Fall Registration Begins

• 08-09-2022
   Book Lovers Day

• 09-08-2022
   Start of Fall Semester

• 09-08-2022
   International Literacy Day

• 09-22-2022
   North Texas Giving Day

• 10-27-2022
   Legacy of Literacy Breakfast

• 11-01-2022
   National Family Literacy Day

Help Aspire serve more students by making a tax-deductible donation today.