April at kidsLINK was filled with discovery, creativity, and connection—but the true magic came from the people who showed up to share their time and talents with our kids. In honor of Volunteer Appreciation Month, we want to shine a spotlight on the incredible volunteers and community partners who make kidsLINK more than just an afterschool program—they make it a place to grow.
This month, our Dig It Up theme had kids exploring everything from fossils and local history to treasures you might find right in your backyard. But it was our volunteers who helped bring those ideas to life. Brian from KGLT Kids visited Whittier, Meadowlark, and Hyalite, leading hands-on music and song-writing sessions where kids played real instruments and learned how music is made for the radio. His energy and creativity made learning unforgettable.
The Gallatin Solid Waste Management District joined us for a fun and educational recycling activity, getting kids to think critically about how we take care of our planet. And Judy from Girl Scouts, a familiar and beloved face, kept the girls laughing, learning, and creating with her always engaging activities.
We also wrapped up another fantastic season with the MSU Book Club Reading Clinics and STEM Club fun. The MSU teams—made up of student volunteers and faculty—have played a big role in helping our kids grow as readers, problem-solvers, and budding scientists. Their energy, creativity, and support made a lasting impact this spring.
And behind the scenes, middle schoolers at our programs have been hard at work on a water filtration STEM project they’ll soon present to NASA. They’ve been experimenting with materials like charcoal, rocks, and sand—putting science into action thanks to the encouragement of volunteers and staff who believe in their potential.
To every volunteer who has given time, shared a talent, or helped make a child’s afternoon brighter this year: thank you. We’re so grateful for your energy, kindness, and commitment to our kids. You are the heart of this program, and we couldn’t do it without you.
Want to see more of what makes kidsLINK so special? Follow us on social media for a behind-the-scenes look at the fun and learning.
And if you—or someone you know—might be interested in sharing a skill or leading an activity, reach out! We’re always looking for new community members to join the kidsLINK crew.
