Beginning from a young age I have always been enthusiastic about contributing to my community and school. I have always been a person who loves helping others. I first got involved in volunteering in the 7^th grade. Fridays and Saturdays after school I would go and volunteer at Dumbarton Library. I would volunteer by helping the younger kids during story time and assist people who may need help around the library. I love working with the kids the most. I would always be so eager when we conducted children’s activities, because the looks of excitement on the children’s faces were just so heartwarming.

            When I entered high school I joined many community service clubs. One of the clubs I joined was called Triangle One. During the holiday seasons, we always go downtown to the Hospitality House and volunteer to make food for the people who are staying there. Volunteering at the Hospitality House is one of my favorite activities that we do in Triangle One. Club members are assigned to bring specific items that are useful in preparing the people’s meals. After cooking and serving the foods, we sit around and chat with the people. The feeling I get from a simple, “Thank You,” is one of the biggest rewards of volunteering. Just knowing that I have done something selfless is enough of a reward to me. Key Club is another one of the community service clubs that I enjoyed during high school. One of the most memorable volunteering activities we always do in Key Club is “caroling for cans.” The purpose of “caroling for cans” is to collect as many canned food items for the homeless, so they can have meals during the holiday. Going around house to house, singing Christmas carols, and collecting food for the homeless with other kind-hearted people is always so uplifting to me.  

Volunteering became a regular thing for me throughout high school. Even during my summers I would frequently volunteer. The summer of 9^th grade, my mother told me that her work place, Parham Health Care, was looking for volunteers to help out on the weekends. When I heard that, I jumped on the opportunity I volunteered in assisting the elderly during game times and holiday ceremonies. Not only did I make new friends with some of the patients there, but I learned so much during my time spent there. Helping out the patients one- on- one was such an enjoyment. Each one of them has a special place in my heart, and I will never forget what they taught me about life. Volunteering at Parham Health Care not only allowed me to see a different view of life from others, but it showed me that every person is different and you should always give them a chance to show you what unique qualities they hold within. I will never forget the wonderful experiences that I gained by helping out at Parham Health Care.

            I believe that volunteering is one of the biggest achievements I have accomplished in my life. One of the best feelings I gain from it is feeling the sense of appreciation for the time I spent in making others happy.