Oasis tutor Gerald Johnson has discovered when he meets with students, reading improves and something else happens: new friendships form.

This Oasis tutor and her first grade student formed a bond that is still going strong 19 years later. Their connection has made both of their lives better.

Tutoring gave retired journalist Aaron Epstein an idea that has blossomed into a school newspaper, written by young reporters eager to learn the tricks of the trade.

By sharing a little bit of her own family story, Oasis tutor Betty Dotson gave one little girl a chance to connect the dots of history in a creative way.

“Come out of yourself and do something for someone else," urges Oasis volunteer Cynthia Singleton. "We have to step up to the plate to help these children."