Homework makes most students cringe and their parents afraid they will be asked to help. At the Lafayette Public Library Homework Center, homework is fun.

"It helps me by getting good grades and I learn stuff," said third-grader Buddy Rice.

"He comes from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. on most days and he just loves it here. He loves the people," said Buddy's mom, Mary Elizabeth Rice.

It is hard to tell who enjoys the homework center more: the parents, who see their children's self-esteem improve, or the kids who say they now enjoy school work.

"You have got a lot of great people. It is better than doing it by yourself because you understand it better," said seventh-grader Kevin Rosario.

"He came in with special needs in the second grade and now he is an honor roll student," said Kevin's dad, Kevin Rosario Sr.

Hundreds of kids have come to the center in the past 10 years. Many feel like the homework center has given them an edge in school.

"It feels like I am ahead, and I can get everything fast because I already know it," said fifth-grader Isis Mejia.

It is a drop-in homework center that is open four days a week. Students from third through 12th grade come after school. Parents say it helps when they cannot always be around when their children get home.

Private homework centers charge for this kind of service. But the Lafayette Public Library Homework Center is free because it relies on volunteers.

"The tutors are the best. They are skilled; they care. This year we have 24 volunteers," said Gaea Shaw, Homework Center Coordinator.

"I come here because I learn something every day from the kids," said volunteer Greg Jones.

Some of the volunteer tutors are retired, but most work all day and then give their time at the center. Many of them have volunteed nearly every week for nine to 10 years.

"It is the high point of my week," said Robin Ryerson, a volunteer for nine years.

"I am a proud, proud person of this. I could say a proud momma of this program," said Shaw.

It is a program that works thanks to a dedicated staff and enthusiastic volunteers.

To learn more about the Lafayette Public Library Homework Center go to www.CityofLafayette.com.