Profile of a Volunteer

We have to do what we can to help wherever and whenever it is possible for us to help – Jackie Chan

       Although the above quote was well said by Jackie Chan, those words are well demonstrated by my co-worker; Susan (pseudonym for privacy purposes). Susan is the office manager at the early childhood center where I work.  She started her work there as a parent volunteer; assisting teachers within the classroom and supervising children outside. Even early mornings, she would assist other parents in getting their children out of the car so that they could have a wonderful start of the day. Parents who were in need of anything, Susan somehow found out and either offered supportive resources or gave them the information they needed to get help. Her volunteer efforts were not only at school, but I will say, they were at home. The children that she called her own were foster children. She took care of them, fell in love with them, and adopted them, giving them the wonderful home they deserve. Beyond home and school, Susan founded and is currently operating her own foundation. She is positively impacting the lives of young children and their families within the city she lives by affording at risk children/youth educational support and teaching them skills to navigate life successfully.

            Susan has certainly had  and is currently having a positive impact on the lives of children and their families. Through her support, she has helped them to feel good about themselves. She has made her community stronger. Most importantly she has strengthened the family unit. Individuals have personally testified to the fact that she has been their biggest cheerleader and they would support her if she decided to run for political office. Children who are now adults have shared that her love and kindness have kept them from ruining their lives. Now that is POSITIVE…..

            A vital take-away message related to my work in early childhood education in terms of volunteer efforts and advocacy work in fostering the well-being of children and families is clear and succinct.  I will do what I can…. EVERYDAY.... for all children in a SPECIAL WAY…. For Dr. Seuss has encouraged this work greatly by saying, “A person’s a person, no matter how small”.