Ah, the blog dare that never ends. Today’s prompt…My Volunteer Work. I’m sure this has stumped a few because I’m finding not a lot of people volunteer. Volunteering takes on many faces and you might not think you do, but it’s possible that you are a volunteer in one way or another. That however is a completely other post. Today, we are talking about what I do and I do quite a few things, but I’m going to focus on school volunteering. Here is my scoop:
Ever since my big guy started Kindergarten I’ve been volunteering at the school. Now I have two guys at school and I’m happy to say that I’m still helping out. I started doing it because I wanted to make the transition from half day preschool to full day Kindergarten easier on my son. I figured it would be a good thing if he saw my face at school at least once a week. I’m going to be honest and tell you that I’m just not a kid person. I feel as if I’m a great mom, but I severely lack the skills to be as nurturing to others. Sure, I fall in love with some, but God bless the teachers with their patience . I know I just don’t have it. I do however find comfort in doing my part for my son’s and their classmates during the year. It would be cliche to say I find it rewarding, but it’s a fact. More so now than before and that’s because after volunteering for 3 years I’ve gotten to know so many of the kids. I love it when they see me in a store, hallway, or town event and call my name. I love seeing them grow up and hope that I was a positive part of that experience. This is the good stuff. This what volunteering should be all about.
Here is the bad stuff. I have been accused of “Not having anything to do.” ” Not doing enough” and my favorite, ” Having no life” by the very parents whose kids I help care for. I’m sure I wasn’t suppose to hear any of this, but I have. I’ve also gotten emails stating such statements. Now, now, not by everyone just a couple here and there. Not ANY this year – Awesome! I know we are all parents and when you have to work and can’t be there all the time there is a certain guilt involved in that. I’m a firm believer in the fact that everyone does their best and also their best for their family. I am fortunate that I am able to work out of my home at this time. I give big kudos to the working moms and dads for everything they do. I just ask not to be judged by my choice. My family makes huge sacrifices for me to be able to offer this time. I’m sure you’ve noticed that you don’t see me posting about my vacations and new car. Last year was a very tough year for me as far as volunteering goes. I didn’t even want to sign up again this year. I had to take on other things last year because not one person signed up to help and add to that the chatter. My little guy was just starting Kindergarten this year and I just had to be there for him as I was for my other son. I’m so glad that I’ve been there.
So, when you are ready to attack that PTA mom, or room parent, think about what you are bringing to the table. The parties, the snacks, the field trips are things we need to work on together not apart. We all make it happen all of us. After all it takes a village to raise a child.
I’m proud to be a Room Parent for Kindergarten and Second Grade this year!
Walter says
Well said!
Nancy says
Love it!
Ashley says
Awesome! I have the chance to volunteer at school too, so I think I will take that chance. 🙂