A Story About Why I Volunteer

A Story About Why I Volunteer

Are you familiar with this Bible verse from Proverbs 3:27?  “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it.”

Volunteering is a great opportunity to share whatever good each of us has.  When I volunteer, I feel happier.  Honestly, I don’t go into a volunteer position with the thought that it’s going to make me feel happy.  I really go because I want to share my good with others. For the past 6 years, I have volunteered at my three GrandGirls’ elementary school's art program, Picture Person.  The program is very active and supported by staff, wonderful parents and grandparents. We participate each month of the school year in the classroom.  A lesson includes introducing a famous artist’s biography; displaying his/her work with a print followed by a discussion; teaching key words that are relevant to the lesson; assisting the students with an art project that is related to the print; having music played while students are working on their art project; and sometimes a snack.  As you can imagine, there are several hours of preparation for each lesson. I recently received a beautifully decorated notebook from my GrandGirl’s fifth grade teacher.  In the notebook were pages on which each student wrote his/her message of gratitude for all the parents and grandparents who participate in the art program throughout the year. Here are some (there are 36 in the class) of the sentiments written by the students: “Hopefully, next year if they have Picture Person, I hope I get you guys.” “I don’t have a favorite lesson because you make every one fantastic!” “It must be very stressful doing the projects but you do it in a wonderful and positive spirit!” “I know I will remember doing art with you and learning about artists with you.” “All of you are good-hearted, patient, and give magnificently clear directions.  Our class is very lucky to have such wonderful people to help us learn art!!!” What do you think?  I think I’m coming back next school year to volunteer in the Picture Person program!!