We have a new face at the Damiano Center: Jacob Sass, our AmeriCorps Kids’ Kitchen Assistant! Originally from Waseca, MN, Jacob graduated from UMD with a teaching degree in Secondary Education Social Studies. When he was in school, he watched a presentation about AmeriCorps and was intrigued. To him, doing a year of service for his community was a great way to share his skills and knowledge outside the classroom. As a Kids’ Kitchen Assistant, Jacob will help to better the program by improving recruitment for volunteers, fundraising, cooking, and youth mentor/development.
As a future teacher, Jacob encourages kids to bring in their homework so he can help them with their math and reading skills. He can expand their educational abilities and show them how to handle stressful assignments. “I’m most excited for working with kids. I think a relationship with them is really uplifting and the most rewarding part of the experience is just seeing them happy and growing in a positive way.”
Outside of the classroom, Jacob loves the outdoors. Biking and hiking in state parks are some of his favorite activities. In fact, you can find Jacob hiking anytime throughout the year, even in a heavy blanket of snow!
We’re very excited to have Jacob on board this year and we look forward to seeing what he will accomplish!