The memory is embedded in my mind. It was about this time of year. We had just moved to the Twin Cities—for the second time. I sat one evening at our kitchen table with community education and park and recreation catalogues opened to dog-eared pages and registration forms stacked and divided per child.
I considered. I planned. I registered. And I submitted payments. A lot of them. I sat back and thought, “What am I doing?” Why was I shelling out so much money to keep three little boys entertained and occupied for the summer at camps for this and programs for that? Those kids were being given a lot of opportunities, but what were they giving? Was I missing an even more important opportunity for them during summer break?
Along with the camps and programs, which were amazing (Hands down, I’d sign them up all over again!), I found ways for the kids to volunteer that summer and many summers and school years after that. Calling bingo at a senior center, organizing a church library, running movies at a senior living facility and serving weekends at a respite program were just some of the service areas.
So many young people in our community volunteer in a host of ways, and it’s so gratifying to learn about those acts of volunteerism. Bravo! In keeping with our commitment to showcase local students doing good, read about how Abby Stovern of Orono and Rosie Carnivale of Independence served others in need. (Our annual Senior Spotlight articles each August also showcase amazing acts of service.)
The inspiration to volunteer can be planted during one’s younger years, and, hopefully, it continues to grow as it does with Rotarians. We continue our series about local Rotary organizations with an article about the Wayzata Rotary Club. “We’re not afraid to dream big and set bold goals,” says Anita Rieder, past club president. And sometimes the impetus for dreaming and goal setting can start over a child’s summer break!
What’s one of your goals?
