Be a Volunteer

My husband is a volunteer at a local elementary school. I would like to tell you of some of his experiences and hopefully it will encourage you to volunteer at an elementary school near you.

My husband retired 3 years ago and my daughter, who volunteers at the school, saw a huge need for volunteers but not just volunteers but "grandpa" volunteers and decided that he could squeeze in a morning or two helping out at the school. She talked with some of the teachers and found he was really needed in the kindergarten classroom and a 2nd grade classroom.

So, every Thursday my husband goes to the school office and writes out a name tag that says "GRANDPA", slaps it on his shirt and walks down to the kindergarten room to see what the teacher has in store for him that day. He spends and hour and a half in the kindergarten classroom and then strolls down to the 2nd grade room to lend a hand in that classroom.

Showing his art work

Children want to learn. Sounds incredible but it is true, just ask Grandpa. The children are so happy to see him and all are hoping that it is their turn to work with him today.

You see, each Thursday a few students are selected to get some special help from Grandpa. It might be on reading or math or maybe learning to tell time. The selected children get one on one help or a group of 4 or 5 will work with Grandpa on some of the things they are struggling with. One teacher in a classroom cannot give this kind of devoted attention to all of the children so having Grandpa in the classroom gives the children a big helping hand.

Now at this elementary the parents are also encouraged to volunteer some time in the classroom but with so many moms and dads working it is hard to find parents who can help. Therefore, the grandpa and grandma's are being sought out to spend just a little time volunteering.

#1. Someone needs you.

#2. You can make a difference.

#3. Because it is not about $$$, it is about feeling good.

#4. You will find purpose for your life.

#5. It is always wonderful to give of yourself.

1. Giving back is important. We are so blessed in this country, so; if and when you have the opportunity to volunteer or help out in some way I hope your answer will always be a resounding YES.

Hand Sanitizers are everywhere. Bring some to your Volunteer site and everyone will be greatful. Schools are short on funds and the teachers always welcome these nice gifts.

Grandpa is reading

Here is Grandpa sitting in the 2nd grade classroom reading to some students.

If the teacher has to step out of the classroom Grandpa gets to "entertain" the children for a few minutes. Most of the time he tells them stories about his dogs and what fun they have pheasant hunting or maybe about his hunting trip to Alaska or Russia. After he tells his story the children get to ask him questions. They love that. Sometimes he gets to read to them and he lets them pick out the book.

But, most of the time he works with one or two children at a time. Maybe someone is having a hard time learning to tell time or to count money. Or maybe someone is having trouble with their math. Whatever the problem Grandpa is there to help.

The best part is that Grandpa gets so much more out of being in that school for 3 hours than the children do. He knows that he has made a difference, even if it is a small one, for someone who is struggling.

I have to smile....even when we are shopping at the local grocery store, children spot him and greet thim with a " hi grandpa".