Thanksgiving is coming soon and it is the time of year people are often reminded of ways to give of themselves to others. While this is a wonderfull thing, it is also important to remember one can give of yourself all year round. It may be through the giving of money or things, but to give of oneself is often the most appreciated and most rewarding.

As a middle school student, this Advocate reporter has found several ways to volunteer that are meaningful. As a trained Junior Volunteer at my school, I spend an hour, two days each week, working with two teachers at Lisbon Community School, third grade teacher, Mrs. Sue Hardison and first grade teacher, Mrs. Betty Fogg. One of the things I do as a Junior Volunteer is work one on one with 1st and 3rd grade students to practice their reading skills. Volunteering my time allows the students extra reading help while the teacher continues with the class. I also help the teachers put up and take down bulletin boards and file papers when needed.

Two mornings a week I volunteer in the middle school library helping the PWS Librarian, Ms. Kirsten Funderburk, sort and organize books. Last spring I volunteered at the Lisbon Rec. Department with the swimming lessons offered in partnership with the Lisbon Community School. Not only was it fun to help with the lessons, it was fun to be in the pool!

These are just some examples of ways that one can volunteer, as a student or an adult. There are lots of opportunities and so many ways to give; even if it is just a small amount of your time. Please consider how you might like to help. If interested, contact Monica Millhime, Lisbon School’s Volunteer Coordinator, by phone at 754-0021 or by e-mail at [email protected].