Volunteers

Part of the routine of the last weeks of school is getting certificates ready for the last day assembly. Each child gets an envelope containing their report card, promotion certificate, and achievement awards. In kindergarten we get a little creative-Curious Scientist Award, Terrific Artist Award, Outstanding Behavior Award- in addition to several reading and math awards. I also like to give awards to my parent volunteers. We don’t announce them at the assembly, but I tuck a certificate and thank you into their child’s envelope. Volunteers are an essential part of school life and I appreciate the fact that some of my parents are modeling that behavior for their children.

Volunteers are all around us. Even in tough economic times there are people who are willing to lend a hand to get things done. I know I’ve mentioned before that we have a great group here who are working to improve our little town. They are available any time there is a need. I admire the fact that many of them are retired and could just as easily spend their time traveling or working in their gardens or playing golf.

I was watching the news earlier this week and there was a report about a group that is going to be doing some painting and repairs for the elderly. The group is composed of young and old, working and retired. They get together each spring or early summer to work.

 There is also a group that collects and distributes fans to the elderly.

Some of our friends volunteer each year to work on church camps, mission buildings, and other projects.

Other friends work in kitchens that feed the poor.

A church near us has created a group garden that will benefit all their members.

We see reports each evening about corruption and greed and wasteful spending of our money. But rest assured that there are good people out there who are working without pay, and in many cases spending their own money, to make this country a better place. There are people who don’t need recognition or awards or a paycheck. They just do the right thing because it needs to be done. They do the right thing because they can.

How about you?

 

Comments

[Megan]

Great article! You are such a great example. Thanks for the "good news" because you are so right about the bad news.