Coordinators and tutors for Ampact, a nonprofit organization which offers evidence-based AmeriCorps programs in three focus areas: education, environment and healthy futures, were on hand June 8 at Barsness Park for a day of camaraderie, celebration and volunteering.  In the Glenwood area, Ampact tutors focus on education support – Reading Corps, Math Corps and Early Learning Corps.  Ampact works with tutors in schools to help students that are needing a boost in their reading and math skills. 

“Our tutors typically serve during the school year, from the end of August through mid-June. We came together to celebrate all they accomplished over their term of service,” said Program Manager Abby Ziegler.  “The members took time to pick up trash at Barsness Park and all around the Glenwood City Beach.  In addition, they also painted kindness rocks to spread throughout the community, made cards for service people to thank them for all they do (picture at right) and also took time to celebrate the accomplishments from the year and get to know each other better.  This was our first in-person event since COVID-19, so it was very special to everyone!”  This year in west central Minnesota, Ampact had over 120 tutors serving Pre-K through 8th grade students. Together they served 2,238 students during more than 133,000 tutoring sessions.  Members from all over the West Central region were in attendance for the gathering, coming all the way down from Adrian and up to Verndale.  “We are looking for tutors to serve in all three programs (Reading Corps, Math Corps, and Early Learning Corps) throughout the state,” Ziegler said.  “Specifically, we are looking for six tutors in total to serve at Minnewaska Area Elementary Pre-K and Glacial Hills Elementary.  There are also nearby openings available in Morris, Kensington, Alexandria and Brooten.”  Interested individuals can apply online at ampact.us/serve or email Jordyn.Carey@ampact.us for more information.