National Family Volunteer Day

(Google Image) 

By Diane Forrest,

When I grow up I want to be just like my daddy.  He is my hero, and everyone loves him.  He is well respected in the community because of all of his civic duties.  My father has volunteered on just about every committee and board in the state.  A few years ago he was even voted Natchezian of the year.  An award given by the Chamber of Commerce to those in the community w who have given unselfishly of their time and effort for the betterment of Natchez and Adams County.

My mother is also heavily involved in volunteering her time and energy.  In fact she recently won an award this past April and was described as the quintessential volunteer not only in her church but all over Natchez.  She was also awarded one of the "Unsung Hero" award by the Chamber of Commerce.  This is an award given to members of the community who go over and above in their volunteer efforts.

(Google Image)

My son began volunteering at a young age too; he worked with the cub scouts, volunteered with our church and children's home, and even took 2 trips to Bolivia to assist with medical care and building.  When he was only 14 and 15 years old.

I'm no slouch either when it comes to volunteering.  I have volunteered at the church, our town's orphanage, at work and at school.  It gives you such a sense of pride and achievement when you can forget about your own problems for a while, and help someone else.

Today is National Family Volunteer Day.  It is a day where you can get together with your family and help your fellow man.  The holiday season is a great time to volunteer your time and services.  You don't have to do anything huge or elaborate.  You can take your family to an elderly or widowed neighbor and offer to clean their yard; you can go shopping and make a food basket for a needy family.   You can even clean out your closets and toys and donate them to your local Red Cross or shelter.  You can take your family to a local soup kitchen and serve a meal for a day.

The possibilities are endless, limited only by your imagination.  So on Family Volunteer Day, take your family and provide a service for someone else, and if you need other ideas, click on this site: 

http://www.thevolunteerfamily.org/?gclid=CODLrMudu6wCFY2b7QodtCmunw

We would love to hear your stories and ideas about your family have spent the day volunteering.

(Google Image)