My Volunteer Experience
     I am currently a member of my church’s Girls Auxiliary Mission Program.  We meet every Wednesday night.  Each year we must complete a certain amount of mission projects to fulfill our requirements in order to move on to the next level of service.  Last fall our class decided to volunteer to prepare meals for some of our sick and shut in church members.
     We began by creating a menu.  We decided to prepare chicken; macaroni and cheese; greens; sweet potatoes; and cornbread.  I volunteered to bring macaroni and cheese.  So one Wednesday night we arrived early and cooked dinner in the church fellowship hall. 
     After packing the dinners into storage containers, we loaded two church vans and delivered the hot meals. Some of the members were elderly and told us they really enjoyed our company.  I liked listening to their stories too. 
     When we returned to the church that evening we reflected on what it meant to volunteer your service to others in need.  I feel it is important to give to those in need.  It was heartwarming to see the smiles on the members’ faces when we delivered their meals.  Not only did we give them food, we kept them company for a little while too. 
     We also volunteered at a local children’s hospital this spring.  We cut out pictures and decorated some of the bulletin boards.  This experience had a positive effect on me because it made me thankful for my good health.  I also learned that some children may have to stay in the hospital for many weeks.  So I tried my best to create colorful bulletin boards that would make the sick children feel happy.
     By volunteering my time, I have become more aware of the needs of other people. I am more thankful for my blessings, like good health. I will continue to volunteer and encourage my peers to give of their time also.