The Experience Corps (EC) is a program that brings older adults into public elementary schools to improve academic achievement of students. Previous research has focused on the physical and mental health of volunteers. This research focuses on the effects of participation in EC on subsequent social and civic activity of its members. We explored the extent to which attitudes/actions in the arena of public education are affected by this volunteer experience in public schools. Many EC members reported that they started new work, volunteer, community, and educations activities since joining the program. These findings suggest that participation in EC is a pathway to other productive and civic activities.
Citation
Morrow-Howell, N., McCrary, S., Lee, Y. S., McBride, A. M. (2011, April). Experience Corps: Pathway to new engagement (CSD Research Brief No. 11-11). St. Louis, MO: Washington University, Center for Social Development.