Under the leadership of Heather Maltin and Patti Fabiani, the club propels elementary-aged students from Wissahickon School District towards embracing a love for learning.
In Ambler Borough, an initiative called the Rising Stars Homework Club (RSHC) has been making waves since its inception in 2015. Under the nonprofit of the Mattie N. Dixon Community Cupboard (MDCC), this program is more than just an after-school activity — it is a sanctuary where young minds are nurtured to flourish beyond their academic pursuits.
A vision for the future
At RSHC, the philosophy is clear and compelling: “Children are our future.”
Under the leadership of Heather Maltin and Patti Fabiani, the club propels elementary-aged students from Wissahickon School District towards embracing a love for learning. They work together to ensure that each child receives the support needed to achieve their full potential.
RSHC collaborates closely with schoolteachers in the area to maintain a seamless transition between classroom learning and after-school reinforcement. This synergy helps sustain the continuity of education, allowing children to build upon what they learn during the school day with added support.
A community united
The local community plays a pivotal role in the success of RSHC. Utilizing Ambler Borough’s gymnasium and playground at no cost, the club offers a vibrant space where children engage in a variety of activities designed to enhance both their academic skills and personal growth. From tackling homework to enjoying health and wellness activities, interactive online learning games and engaging with Duncan, the wonderful RSHC reading support dog, every activity is structured to promote independence and lifelong learning.
Volunteers are the backbone of the club. Their diverse backgrounds enrich the children’s learning experiences, providing personalized attention, and fostering a nurturing environment.
A legacy of growth and love
The impact of RSHC is profound. Students show notable improvements in areas such as handwriting, reading fluency, and math skills. More importantly, the club helps enhance students' self-esteem and their ability to socialize confidently and collaborate with peers. Such developmental strides are critical as they lay the foundation for the children’s future regarding both educational and social success.
Looking ahead with hope
As RSHC continues to evolve, its goals remain ambitious yet grounded in the community’s spirit of mutual support. The club not only addresses immediate educational needs but also builds a framework for social and emotional support. Many caring teachers and staff from a variety of local schools and visitors from the community unite for the greater good.
“Here at Rising Stars, it is all about creating a space where our children can feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. Every smile, every lightbulb moment, they mean the world to us,” said Ellen Quinn, a standout volunteer in the community, reflecting the heartfelt commitment that defines RSHC.
The club's profound influence on the children and the broader community underscores the power of collective effort and shared vision. It’s a testament to the enduring impact of "Neighbors Helping Neighbors," a mantra adopted from MDCC, that RSHC embodies in every aspect of its operation.
A prelude to further inspiration
Following these insights, I had the distinct pleasure of connecting with trailblazers Heather Maltin and Patti Fabiani to delve deeper into the heart and soul of the Rising Stars Homework Club. Below, we explore their visionary leadership, the stories of transformed lives, and the exciting future that lies ahead for the young stars of Ambler. They cordially and graciously invite us all to contribute our own skills, time, and care, as we continue to celebrate and foster the brilliant potential of our community's children, who are indeed our brightest future.
The following questions were designed to delve deep into the operations, community impact, and future aspirations of the Rising Stars Homework Club under the leadership of the “dynamic duo working wonders” Patti Fabiani & Heather Maltin.
Please share with us one of your most memorable moments at RSHC….
When we get students in the beginning of the year it takes lots of consistent training and extra support to be able to get everyone to understand the routine of the club. The most memorable moment for me is around mid-year, when we all step back from reminders and coaching, and I observe the club and it is functioning independently. Everyone (students and volunteers) knows what to do and do it! One of the goals of the program is to enable the kids to learn to function more independently and when I see that happening, It’s more than just a moment: I know that the program is working!
Looking ahead, what are some of the developments or initiatives you are most excited about implementing within RSHC?
We are most excited about a few initiatives that our High School student volunteers suggested. They have great ideas to do their service projects creating fun games for our kids to play, activities for them to do, and collecting healthy snacks for them to eat. We continually strive to provide various new learning activities to keep the kids motivated to learn.
Can you describe a specific instance where you saw the direct impact of the club’s work on a child’s academic or personal growth?
We have a student that came to us in first grade by parent request. The parent expressed concern that she was tested at school and scored very low. With that information and working closely in conjunction with her reading specialist, the student’s academic levels have shown great improvement. She now requests help instead of trying to avoid work.
How does RSHC tailor its programming to meet the diverse needs of the students it serves?
Patti meets with various school staff to discuss the benefits that can be offered by RSHC. Some of the students are chosen to attend because they need support with completing their homework. Other students are chosen to attend to help improve their socialization skills. Suggestions of how to help the students be successful are discussed with the reading specialists, homeroom teachers, guidance counselors, ESL teachers and RSHC volunteers.
Volunteers are crucial to RSHC’s success. What qualities do you look for in a volunteer, and how do they contribute to the club’s mission?
The qualities we look for include, but are not limited to:
These qualities help the program run successfully.
How does RSHC integrate community resources into its programming, and how have local businesses and organizations supported your efforts?
We are very fortunate to have the support of multiple community resources, including:
What role does technology play in the learning experiences provided at RSHC? Are there any tech-based initiatives you’re particularly proud of?
Teamchildren.org sold us refurbished computers which MDCC purchased. Ambler Borough pays for the internet. WSD has a Clever platform that each student has access to and we encourage them to go on daily to reinforce the skills they are working on at school. We can check if they say they don’t have homework to ensure that they are caught up on all computer assignments.
In what ways has RSHC evolved since you joined forces, and how do you envision its growth in the next five years?
Since we joined forces, we have gotten more schools to send volunteers. Do Better for Steve has provided scholarships for multiple students to attend summer camps. Amazon Wish List helps provide learning materials and supplies necessary for students’ success. We have organized the space, and the students all have their own area for supplies. We have posted the rules so students can read and review as necessary.
How does RSHC handle the emotional and social needs of its students alongside their academic growth?
Can you share insights into how RSHC promotes inclusivity and a sense of community among the children and volunteers?
RSHC has an open-door policy as far as including and accepting students that have a need of some kind. The need can be academic or social. We provide an atmosphere of tolerance and acceptance and frequently remind the children we are a family at RSHC.
What partnerships have been most beneficial for RSHC, and are there new collaborations you’re hoping to explore?
School partnerships are the most beneficial because it is reciprocal. We have plenty of volunteers of various ages. The students have the opportunity to form relationships with peers and young volunteers. The HS or MS students use the opportunity for service hours, a graduation project or as well an opportunity being a role model to younger students with academics, social and sportsmanship.
How do you measure the success of RSHC’s programs? Are there specific milestones or feedback mechanisms in place?
The teachers and parents provide feedback about both academic and social progress. The students happily and proudly present test scores and any awards they receive at school so everyone can congratulate them and share in their successes. As the year progresses, the students are able to stay focused on their academics longer and some students rely on volunteers to check answers and sign off on reading logs to document completion.
If you could share one dream for RSHC’s future, what would it be and why?
Our dream for Rising Stars is to continue to help make a difference with students. There could be similar programs offered at the 4 elementary schools in our district so more children could benefit both academically and socially. The students involved in the program as well as the additional successes they experience. They are always disappointed if it is a school day and they can’t attend RSHC.
How does each volunteer’s unique contribution shape the overall environment and effectiveness of RSHC?
Each volunteer’s unique contribution is they all bring a new and fresh perspective to the program. They share some life experiences with the students that offer new opportunities for the students to learn and grow. Having a variety of volunteers also allows the students to learn kindness, acceptance, and tolerance for individual differences.
Can you describe a transformative story where the joint efforts of volunteers dramatically changed a student’s trajectory or outlook?
There have been many occasions where students come to us feeling hopeless and stressed about their academic abilities and wanting to give up. With consistent positive feedback from volunteers, and our focus on getting the students to talk about things they did well instead of the negative ideas (Example: They have 5% wrong, and 95% correct and they feel like they failed) the students have progressed and are more willing to attempt new skills.
Similar situations offer transformation socially as well, where both students and their parents expressed concern that they have no friends. Within the caring and accepting atmosphere of RSHC, the students have blossomed, made friends and are proud to tell others about it. Once they improve academically or socially, they present in a more self-assured manner in new situations.
How do you think RSHC’s approach to community-based education prepares children not just for school, but for being active and engaged citizens in the future?
The environment of RSHC is similar to real life. We talk about actions, consequences, and the importance of routines and forming good habits.
What message would you like to share with potential volunteers or donors about the profound impact their involvement could have on the community and beyond?
Volunteers-If you are looking for something to do with great reward, come and volunteer for us. You will not only feel good, but you will also make great relationships with the children, you can show you talent and teach a child something they can take with them forever.
In what ways do you believe that empowering and educating the younger generation at RSHC contributes to a more hopeful and sustainable global future?
Continually reminding students about the importance of acceptance and tolerance of individual strengths and needs by doing it now will give them experiences and prepare them for situations they will come across in real life.
Is there anything else you’d like the readers to know about RSHC?
RSHC is a relaxed program. We do not want volunteers to feel obligated. Volunteering (and especially with children) is not for everyone. We want people to WANT to come back, not to HAVE to come back! This is the reason we do not require our volunteers to come on specific days. Any day, any time, and any amount of time is always appreciated!
Through initiatives like RSHC, Ambler not only educates its youth but elevates them, crafting a narrative of hope and opportunity that resonates far beyond the confines of the classroom.
This is the story of a community united by a common goal: to nurture and empower the next generation of leaders and innovators.
RSHC has an ongoing and growing Wishlist. If you feel moved to contribute, RSHC has supplied their Amazon link and offers their gratitude.
