Volunteers

Today's generation has a lot more distractions than previous generations. Yet despite our busy schedules, most young people still find time to get involved with their community. I believe that everyone, especially the more fortunate, has a certain obligation to give back to their community. In most cases, people believe that the only "community" they are responsible for is the town in which they live. However, I believe this to be false. I believe that young people should participate in volunteer work world wide. Ghandi once said, "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others." Areas of service that are of significance to me are projects that help destitute families, acts that reach out to children, and mission fields.

Over half of the American population is living in some type of poverty. Millions of Americans are homeless. That is why I decided to volunteer for habitat for humanity. When I arrived, the house itself was nearly finished. However, there was still much work to be done. I helped plant flowers and trees, spread grass seed and hay, and paint the house. Now, not only did the family have a beautiful house, they would soon have a beautiful yard to play in. It made me feel good that I helped that family have a place to call home.

Because so many Americans are in destitute, I believe we need to start with the children. If we teach the children how to become well educated and how to support themselves, the cycle is less likely to repeat itself. Because small children look up to young adults, I believe that it is essential for teenagers to volunteer to help with youth organizations. This is why I have volunteered for numerous activities involving children.

I was involved in an organization called the West Side Kids Club at the University of North Alabama. This is an after school program designed for underprivileged children.