A Franklin High School tutor has been named Baltimore County Public School’s third annual Volunteer of the Year.
Brian Kim was chosen out of 65 other volunteers. In his second year volunteering at Franklin High School, he has committed more than 2,000 hours to helping students in the Advanced Via Individual Determination program with everything from homework to college essays.
"I'm very honored to be nominated, there were a lot of great volunteers...to be selected was an honor," Kim said. "I volunteered as a way to give back. I first came across the program and it seemed like it could make a big impact in children's lives. I was able to learn a lot from them (the students) as well. It was a very gratifying experience."
Kim was awarded for his dedication to the students. He has attended classes with the students just to gain a better understanding of the material he is tutoring them in.
"The AVID program is an elective class where we teach them skills and there are classes that the students struggle in for many reasons. Sometimes I would go into the class, sit down in the back and figure out how I could better understand the material and help the students as well," he said.
Kim was awarded during a breakfast where each volunteer was recognized for their service to students.
“You have done so much more than just show up. You have supported teachers, nurtured students, shared your knowledge and talents, raised funds, and inspired others to get involved.” Nick Burton-Prateley, president of the Baltimore County Student Councils and a 2016 Hereford High graduate, said in a statement.
The other four Volunteer of the Year finalists were:
- Laura Frasca, volunteer at Norwood Elementary School in Dundalk.
- Cheryl Herb, a volunteer at both Bedford Elementary and Campfield Early Learning Center in Pikesville.
- Diane Knight, a volunteer at Powhatan Elementary School in Woodlawn.
- Kevin Rhock, a volunteer at Sandalwood Elementary School in Essex.
