I am sure, at one time or another, readers have volunteered or done community service. This service may have been done to fulfill requirements for a club, organization, class, or as punishment. But why should these be the only reasons that we volunteer? There is also personal satisfaction and the gratification of knowing that you have helped someone else.
  Part of my participation grade in art class was to volunteer in one of three organizations for a two to three hour period. To gain this part of my participation grade, I chose a local organization called Minds Wide Open. On Saturday, November 6, I got up at 8:00 in the morning, after having only about 4 hours sleep the previous night, and went to do my duty at Minds Wide Open. This organization has several programs to help disabled adults, children, and foster children, and I had chosen to work with the foster and autistic children in their Saturday morning program.
   I was extremely tired as I trekked down Broadway to Victorian Square Shopping Center, where Minds Wide Open is held. My plans were to volunteer this one morning to earn the grade for this project, and probably never come back unless required.
    When I got there, however my whole attitude changed. That morning I was paired with a 5-year old autistic boy. This child opened my eyes to the disability, and it helped me to realize that I have been, in a way, sheltered my whole life. I have never really been around disabled people, especially disabled children. That day we prepared for the Lexington Christmas parade, in which the children in this six-week program will participate. We also worked on artwork that will be part of the float in the parade.
Perhaps the point at which I decided to go back came at the end of the session when the child, who had been very quiet and had appeared to be unconnected, hugged me out of the blue. Since that point, I have gone back and have plans. of finishing this six week program and volunteering at Minds Wide Open until I feel led to do otherwise.
    In conclusion, consider volunteering for reasons other than a grade or requirement. Do it for yourself and for your fellow man!

Eric Thomason, first-year student

Published in the Rambler, Transylvania University, Lexington, KY 1999