Sydney Elliott, age 11, and her family adopted 11-year-old Quincy from APL. He has cataracts and is partially deaf. Sydney's dad built two ramps to help Quincy get in and out of the house and car. The entire family loves this special little dog, whose favorite place is Rochester Park where he has made many friends.

Get Out and Volunteer

by Sydney Elliott

Sixth Grade, Calvary Academy

Do you know any kids who volunteer or help out anywhere? You probably don’t. Volunteering actually isn’t that popular for kids, even adults. I think it is very important for you, and everyone, to get out and volunteer any way you can! If no one volunteered, the world wouldn’t be the same.

First of all, it is fun to volunteer! One place that I volunteer is at the Animal Protective League, a homeless cat and dog shelter. My job there as a volunteer is to make the cats and kittens not feel lonely, and I have fun with them. Sometimes my parents walk the dogs. They really enjoy it! You could volunteer at many other places that are fun, yet helpful.

My second reason is that it makes you feel responsible and very good about yourself, because you helped and made a difference. It makes you think of how much you can achieve goals. It has made me even feel better about me. Have you ever done something that makes you feel good knowing you did it? Volunteering makes me, maybe even you, feel that way.

Finally, it really helps others. It makes those who you volunteer for very happy. More than you think! I know my help makes others happy. It shows them how responsible you can be. They’re glad that you care about volunteering.

It is good to set a goal of how much volunteer work you want to do. It doesn’t have to be a lot, but I think it is a good idea to volunteer. Remember, it makes you feel good, it helps others, and can be fun! No matter where you volunteer, from your community to a shelter, it still makes a difference! So get out and volunteer!