Volunteering, You Don't Need to be A Genius

My Driving Question was "What is the importance of service hours?"  A simple answer would be students should give back to the community.  After some research I think it's more than that, more than just giving back.  A survey was taken and a popular feeling towards serving was a sense of pride.  When you volunteer you often get more than you give.  That feeling of pride is a part of us and there is a need to fill that part.

Another question asked in the survey was "What is your goal for total number of volunteer hours?"  Most participants had a goal of 20 to 40 hours, but some people had their goals in the 100's and 200's.  Overall the average was around 50 hours.  My personal goal is around 175 hours.  I am well on my way seeing that I have 100 hours already.

The President's Volunteer Service award is an initiative to volunteer time and effort to the community around you.  Different amounts of time for different ages will earn you a Bronze, Silver, or Gold per year.

These are the amounts of time needed per age group.  There is even a lifetime award for people that give over 4,000 hours of their time over their lifetime.

My favorite place to volunteer is Shalom Farms, a farm that is supported by the United Methodist Church.  It is mainly run by volunteer efforts and donations from local organizations.  They produce many different varieties of vegetables and fruits, eventually taking them to "food deserts" which are places with limited fresh produce.  I have helped with this organization for a number of years and can't imagine a better place to spend a day.  If you are interested in visiting this special spot, visit shalomfarms.org.  

So what's stopping you from volunteering?  Check your calendar, find a friend, and go make a difference in the world!