Directed by Dr. Jerry S. Evans, Cougars for Kids is an officially registered University of Houston student organization sponsored by the College of Technology. Operated by UH students, it is the largest community service volunteer program at the University of Houston.
Spending time away from family, friends, or school is stressful for young children. Consequently, they are at risk for falling behind with school work and missing out on developing important social connections with their peers or teachers. Since its launch, about three years ago, Cougars for Kids has been a significant way for UH students to give back by assisting sick children during their extended stay in area hospitals or long-term treatment facilities.
UH Cougars for Kids volunteers actively support each institution's existing volunteers, by reading, storytelling, playing games, or working on school assignments with the children. Volunteers can be found in all of the hospitals throughout the Texas Medical Center, including Texas Children's Hospital, The Methodist Hospital, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Shriners Hospital, and Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital. The University of Houston also provides volunteers to Healthbridge Children's Hospital in West Houston.
The commitment and support does not end there. Two years ago, Cougars for Kids expanded to include a few hours per week of tutoring and mentoring within many Houston area schools. Also, volunteers enjoy participating in a variety of other special events throughout the year.
Orientation sessions begin soon.