Article by Milada Weaver, Neighborhood and Community Services
(Posted 2026 November)
In schools all over Fairfax County, volunteers age 50+ are stepping up to provide academic support to elementary school students. Called GrandInvolve, the program operates in Title I schools and is designed to close the educational and resource gaps these students face.
GrandInvolve brings together retired professionals from all walks of life who have a wealth of knowledge and life lessons to share. Many are former educators who have more than 200 years of classroom experience between them. Volunteers get a chance to engage with young people and help them with subjects like reading and math. And the students get the chance to receive extra encouragement that can make a big difference in their lives.
The best ambassadors for GrandInvolve are the volunteers themselves, so we spoke to them about serving in the schools. Jeanne Mussig has been a volunteer since 2019 working with second and third graders on reading. She makes learning fun by presenting “reader's theater stories” to the class. “The children read different parts, and we prepared simple costumes and scenery,” she said. This approach proved so popular that “the children would do a little acting, such as speaking with appropriate emphasis, or adding movement or facial expressions, which were appreciated by the audience.” Jeanne has noticed improved reading fluency for the most hesitant readers, and many are more comfortable speaking in front of the class. A few told her that “they tried out for parts in plays at their churches, or that they planned to take drama/theater classes in middle school.”
Rebecca Holderness, a volunteer since 2024, says “working with a wonderfully diverse group of students has enriched my life in ways I never expected.” When Rebecca enters a classroom and sees the smiles and excitement it reminds her “how meaningful volunteer work can be – not only for the students, but for the volunteers.”
Volunteers in the program enjoy a robust support system. Each school has a School Liaison who will encourage you in your efforts, and there are meetings and social gatherings where you can learn from other volunteers and talk with the Program Coordinator. It’s a great opportunity to get active in your community in support of children’s education.
Join GrandInvolve today by reaching out to Jennifer Chuong with Neighborhood and Community Services at NCS-Volunteers@fairfaxcounty.gov. Volunteers are required to complete a background check and a volunteer orientation before they are placed in a classroom.
This article is part of the Golden Gazette monthly newsletter which covers a variety of topics and community news concerning older adults and caregivers in Fairfax County. Are you new to the Golden Gazette? Don’t miss out on future newsletters! Subscribe to get the electronic or free printed version mailed to you. Have a suggestion for a topic? Share it in an email or call 703-324-GOLD (4653).