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Role of the Penny Harvest Coach

Q: Who can be a Penny Harvest Coach (PHC)?

A: Successful coaches are community-minded, respected, interested in
service learning and have access to students during the day throughout
the year. In the past, coaches have included all types of school staff
(teachers, counselors, principals, librarians), parent volunteers, PTA
leaders, and Americorps members.

Q: What is the role of the PHC?

A: The PHC works with a team of student leaders while simultaneously
engaging all students. It is the job of the coach to spearhead the program,
working closely with the principal and other school staff. The role is one of
manager, motivational speaker, teacher, coordinator, planner, and organizer.
Above all, the PHC is a facilitator.

Q: What are the responsibilities of the coach?

A: It is the responsibility of the Penny Harvest Coach to inspire and coordinate all
members of the school community. In the fall, the coach works with a group of
10-15 student leaders to coordinate activities and involve the entire school in
gathering pennies.  During the winter/spring the PHC facilitates the Philanthropy
Roundtable as Student Leaders study community problems, debate and prioritize
the most pressing issues, and determine which organizations can best alleviate
those problems. Finally, the coach must assist the students as they take their
philanthropy one step further and complete a Neighborhood Service Project.

Q: How much time needs to be devoted to being the coach?

A: Although the amount of time will vary throughout the school year, most
coaches report that they spend between 1-2 hours a week on Penny
Harvest-related activities.

“My favorite volunteer activity has been as a Penny Harvest Coach! 
For a small time commitment, I watch with a smile as students pledge
to take actions outside of school to help their favorite organizations. 
The students do the work — my role is to coach them through it and
enjoy every minute of their excitement in helping others and their
enthusiasm that kids make the decisions!”   
-Julie Berg, PHC at John Hay Elementary

Q: What resources/support do coaches receive?

A: Penny Harvest provides coaches with everything needed to run the campaign including
collection bags, posters, badges, informational DVD, student leader pins, a letter to parents
and neighbors, and a curriculum guide. In addition, coaches receive training and support
via email, phone calls, letters and the PH News.