Volunteering has its own reward through WH FCCLA
Whether it’s having fun dressing up in costume or doing serious work, volunteering through the Family, Career & Community Leaders of America program at West Holmes High School provides experience for teens looking to sink their teeth into something meaningful.
West Holmes High School Family, Career & Community Leaders of America coordinator Tes Kinsey is gearing up for the coming high school year as an educator, but in addition, she is in the process of trying to coordinate with area businesses and organizations to present volunteer opportunities for the high school students.
Kinsey went to Facebook recently in search of hearing from people as to the variety of possible volunteer work partners in the community, and thus far she has received some positive input.
“So much of what we want to stress to the students through this program is that volunteering can be important, productive and fun,” Kinsey said. “I think in reaching out to the community through Facebook and other avenues, my goal was to create a lengthy list of places throughout the community that invite teens to come and be a part of the volunteer work that takes place. I also think it’s important for our area organizations and businesses to recognize that our teens can do quality work that can benefit them, so it’s a really great partnership that helps everyone involved.”
Kinsey said the idea behind the search was to build a slate of possible volunteer opportunities she could take to the FCCLA student officers for their meeting later this fall to discuss and prioritize.
She said volunteering and doing community work is beneficial to the students in many ways. She said initially it helps them because they need it to secure scholarships or to be a member of the National Honor Society, but more importantly, it gives students a sense of community involvement and commitment, something she said will carry on throughout their lives if they learn the importance of it.
“One of the best things that comes from this program is that kids find that they enjoy giving back to others in the community,” Kinsey said. “They initially do it because they recognize that it’s the nice thing to do, but they soon realize it’s the right thing to do.”
FCCLA’s mission is to promote personal growth and leadership development through family and consumer sciences education. Focusing on the multiple roles of family members, wage earners and community leaders, members develop skills for life through character development, creative and critical thinking, interpersonal communication, practical knowledge, and career preparation.
While FCCLA is a nationally recognized organization, Kinsey said West Holmes remains committed to serving the community, with the emphasis on service.
“We work hard to create opportunities on the local level that benefit our area families,” Kinsey said. “One thing we believe is important is that this is a great way to introduce the kids to the importance of community service, and the rewards that come from this are wonderful for both those for whom they are serving and to themselves. Having that mentality to serve is a big part of our community, and it’s something special that can impact their lives in a positive way for a lifetime.”
Kinsey said as they work through school with a career in mind that will hopefully one day pay them handsomely, it’s important to learn the good feeling from volunteer service by doing something good for others, and there is room in people’s lives for both.
Thus, Kinsey has set sail to connect with area organizations that are seeking the help of teen volunteers who can provide quality services while growing deeper in their sense of community.
If any organization or company has an opportunity for volunteering, they can email Kinsey at tkinsey@wh.org.