Since I was 16, I've been volunteering. I was attending a local community college, and I stumbled upon a nursing home next to the college. I thought to myself selfishly that I should volunteer to boost up my resume. I remember walking into the center and smelling a very odd smell. Since it reminded me of a hospital, I wanted to turn around and leave. However, I gave it some thought and stayed. I ended up running a little store that served popcorn and ice-cream to the residents. I went there for selfish reasons, but I left feeling as if the residents selflessly gave to me through their stories and attention. I've been volunteering ever since and I LOVE it!
As I look upon that time, I realize that I should have been volunteering way before high school. I was never exposed to it. No one ever expected me to. No one I knew volunteered. As I teach, I come across students of mine that have the same background. I want to change that. My students range from 16 to 60 with the majority never volunteering at a shelter, a nursing home, a local foodbank, etc. We, as educators, have an opportunity to change that. Not only can we teach through community service, but they can learn to give back to the community. What a fortunate position we are in to create lifelong learners and volunteers?
As I look upon that time, I realize that I should have been volunteering way before high school. I was never exposed to it. No one ever expected me to. No one I knew volunteered. As I teach, I come across students of mine that have the same background. I want to change that. My students range from 16 to 60 with the majority never volunteering at a shelter, a nursing home, a local foodbank, etc. We, as educators, have an opportunity to change that. Not only can we teach through community service, but they can learn to give back to the community. What a fortunate position we are in to create lifelong learners and volunteers?