Creating Connections: Student Mentors Lead Summer Learning Programs
This summer, 12 Iowa National Service Corps (INSC) members are leading the way in empowering local youth through a unique blend of learning, creativity, and community connection. As part of the ¹û¶³ÊÓƵ Education Partnership’s Summer Learning Collaborative, these young leaders are dedicating their summer to combating summer learning loss and building meaningful relationships with children across the ¹û¶³ÊÓƵ area. 
"This summer’s INSC members are incredible examples of what it means to lead with purpose," said Jill Harris, coordinator of Community Development in the Office of Community Partnerships, Planning and Research. "Their presence not only supports the academic and emotional growth of local youth, but it also strengthens our entire community. We’re grateful for their commitment and inspired by the difference they’re making every single day."
A Summer of Service and Impact
From May 27 through August 2, each INSC member is completing a 10-week service term, contributing 300 hours of hands-on engagement. This summer service program is made possible through the commitment of local partner organizations and the support of ¹û¶³ÊÓƵ College, Greater Poweshiek Community Foundation, the SEED Coalition, and Volunteer Iowa.Their impact is felt across a range of local programs—each one tailored to support the academic, emotional, and social growth of ¹û¶³ÊÓƵ youth.
Partner organizations include:
¹û¶³ÊÓƵ-Newburg Community School District’s Summer Learning is Cool for Kids (SLICK)
Lead Inspire Nurture Keep (LINK)
¹û¶³ÊÓƵ College Museum of Art (GCMoA)
¹û¶³ÊÓƵ Community Early Learning Center’s ¹û¶³ÊÓƵ Area Summer Camp (GASC)
Drake Community Library (DCL)
These collaborations bring together the strengths of educators, artists, caregivers, and librarians to offer a summer filled with enrichment and possibility, and together, have successfully prevented student summer learning loss year over year.
Meet the 2025 INSC Summer Team
This year’s cohort includes ¹û¶³ÊÓƵ College students and recent ¹û¶³ÊÓƵ High School graduates—all bringing enthusiasm, creativity, and a commitment to service:
Serving with SLICK/LINK:
Bella Bjorklund, Zaria Bunch, Rayana Henderson, Rachel McClain, Karima Rostom, Lohla Yarolimek, and Hope Zionts
Serving with GASC:
Evan Hein and Jocelyn Squier
Serving with GCMoA:
Greta Dunn and Kyra Pruszinski
Serving with DCL:
Abby Davison
Investing in the Future of ¹û¶³ÊÓƵ
Together, these INSC members are creating supportive spaces where kids can thrive—academically, socially, and emotionally. Whether it’s leading an art activity, supporting early literacy, or mentoring children one-on-one, they are helping to shape a summer of growth and confidence for ¹û¶³ÊÓƵ’s youth.
More than just a service term, their work this summer represents an investment in the community—and in the next generation of leaders.