ACTS OF KINDNESS: Three people pay it forward to volunteer - NBC12.com - Richmond, VA News

It's an Acts of Kindness first — three people are paying it forward to a grandparent volunteer who has given a priceless gift to hundreds of young kids.

She's taken them on countless adventures, uncovering all sorts of treasures, through the pages of a book.

A dedicated reading recovery expert is this week's Acts of Kindness recipient.

Betty Guarino brings stories to life and keeps students spellbound in her weekly reading sessions.

Mrs. G, as the kids call her, has given more than 540 volunteer hours to Chesterfield's Gordan Elementary School.

"She has a passion for reading, she takes it as a priority and she gives the gift of literacy to the kids," said Anne Pennino.

"When she comes in my room, they're jumping all like, screaming, 'Mrs G! Mrs G!' They all want to go work with her and she has made my students come out of their shell," said Heather Searcey.

"I had a child who was on the borderline of being retained and she's made the difference in that child go onto 3rd grade," said Becky Hudson.

This trio was tenacious in getting us to the Gordon campus, writing letter after letter after letter.

Sabrina: "We are thrilled to present one-hundred, two-hundred, three-hundred dollars to Mrs G."

The teachers brought Betty's family to school — her husband, daughter, son-in-law and the grandkids who inspired the retired teacher — to come back to the classroom.

When the family's favorite teacher reported to the conference room, it was indeed a sweet surprise.

As the reading recovery specialist recovered from the shock we explained her nomination.

Sabrina: "You are our act of kindness recipient.

Mrs G: "You've got to be kidding. Really?"

Sabrina: "You've taught a lot of people how to read?

Mrs G: "Yes, yes and it's been absolutely a treasure filled life so it's worth it."

It been priceless to the school, and staff passed on a little love offering.

Anne: "Mrs G, here's a hundred dollars for all you have done, you have given books to children."

One by one, each gave their heartfelt appreciation.

Becky : "For three years, being my friend."

Mrs G: "You have been a treasure girl, you really have, my soul mate. And you!"

Heather: "Thank you for being Mrs G! Ooh we love you."

Mrs G: :I've loved everyone of your kids and I've enjoyed going into your classroom so much"

And there was one special reading assignment for Mrs G, a table full of love notes from her Gordon Elementary family.

Gifts from teachers and from the boys and girls, so thankful for the "nice lady" whose words made them smile. 

If there's an organization or individual you believe deserves an Act of Kindness, e-mail me. Remember, it cannot be a relative.

Send your nomination to kindness@nbc12.com.

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