I as I was mowing down large amounts of grass and some weeds with Roy (the name given to my weed destroying machine) today, I was wondering how this could be tied into my classes and the club I am advising. It really is a nice fit as we try to get out and help in the community. This is usually done by helping with a food drive, normally around Christmas time. There are many things I try to get across to the students about why to volunteer. What matters most is the fact that you get out and help, preferably not just so you can put something down on a resume, but, to help make the community you live in a better place. It doesn’t have to been something huge just doing something will help. It would be best if the students volunteered just because they wanted too but many will need a little push out the door. Living in Moscow there are many opportunities to volunteer and as a school we have very high numbers of students reaching out but there can always be more. Now that I knowing about the Palouse –Clearwater Environmental Institute, I will suggest that student can go and volunteer with them. It will give them the opportunity to get outside and get dirty; this will do many of them some good. I think many of the high school students would enjoy this type of project, providing the weather wasn’t too hot.
Today, helped to remind of how important it is to give back to the community and how good it feels to help others. After destroying many a weeds with Roy there was a sense of accomplishment. Today, also reminded me of what my cousins, me and my brother used to do as kids, walking around a steam having fun in the outdoors, the only today there was far more purpose.
I feel you Lew. You are right when you say that it is important to give back. We are a blessed nation that has a lot. It doesn't take too much effort to give back to those who are in need. Here's an idea. Give to yourself when you give to others. It is also important to provide yourself with time and caring. What makes you happy? I like to follow up my volunteer time with a round of golf with a buddy. It allows you the opportunity to reflect on the experiences while treating yourself at the same time.
ReplyDeleteI agree that service learning could be a powerful thing. The tough part, one that I too am trying to figure out, is how to use it effectively in your classes with your students. Seems to be a lot of obstacles like finding appropriate activities that relate to class, organization, finding time, etc. But like you said, the work this would require definitly seems worth it as your students will benefit greatly.
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