Avon Grove residents Malcolm Adler and Sharon McCormick volunteer in the Penn London Elementary School library.
Avon Grove School District was featured in the November edition of the AARP Bulletin for being one of several government entities nationwide that offers senior citizens the opportunity to receive a tax rebate in exchange for volunteer service.
The Senior Volunteer Tax Relief Program allows Avon Grove residents who are 60 or older and pay property taxes to volunteer in the district in return for tax relief. Participants can earn up to $650 a year in the form of a property tax rebate if they complete 50 hours of service by the end of the school year.
The AARP article, titled “Work off tax levies”, showcased the positive impact of the program throughout the country. Dr. M. Christopher Marchese, Superintendent of Schools, was interviewed for the piece and shared how successful the program has been at connecting our community members with our schools. “It allows them to learn about the district while building relationships with our staff and families,” Marchese said.
Participants in the program are able to volunteer in any of the four Avon Grove schools and often have the opportunity to assist with special events in the evenings and on weekends. From clerical duties in the main office to decorating for a craft fair, the volunteers can spend their time helping in a way that suits their interests and schedule.
At Penn London Elementary School, the library is a favorite assignment for volunteers. “I love being around the children and seeing them read,” shared Sharon McCormick, a retired teacher who frequently volunteers in the library.
“My grandchildren are in the district, so it’s nice being in the schools,” McCormick added.
The program currently has over 100 volunteers and continues to grow. School Board President Bonnie Wolff expressed pride that the district is prioritizing such initiatives. “Some senior citizens volunteer in the classrooms and some volunteer in the offices, getting to know the students and staff opens the lines of communication. Everyone benefits,” Wolff said.
