April is National Volunteer Month.
In celebration, the MCC Daily Tribune will feature the individual answers of more than 20 faculty and staff members to the question “ Why Do I Volunteer?”
I strongly believe that parents as well as teachers play an important role in the educational experience of our youth. With that being said, I became involved with our elementary school PTSA. At first, I was a Coordinator for a few events. In 2007, I was asked to be the PTSA Chair for State Road Elementary and currently hold this position. Our school is extremely fortunate to have an active PTSA and we provide a multitude of events, services and programs for our students. I have a greater appreciation for the work of our teachers, the support and dedication of our parents, and how all areas actively bond together to support our students. These past several years of volunteering at State Road Elementary have been a wonderful experience for me personally.
This initial volunteer experience encouraged me to become involved in many other organizations. I am a volunteer for Hunter’s Hope, Chair the Genesee Valley Reflections Art Program, and serve as Assistant Director for the Webster Wildcat Pop Warner Cheer Program. I believe that volunteering is the best way to give back to the community. I can sincerely say that I enjoy each volunteer affiliation and feel grateful to be able to assist these programs. There is nothing better than hearing the laughter of the children at a school event, or seeing the smile of a child as her artwork is acknowledged during an art show, or watching a group of children perform a routine they have worked months to perfect. These are the moments I will cherish. This is why I volunteer!
Barb Balcaen
Office of Academic Assessment
Janet Ekis
College and Community Relations
04/03/2009 |