Lifelong Learning

There's a statistic somewhere out there that says if people who volunteer actually reflect and discuss their volunteering experience, they are more likely to have a lifelong commitment to volunteering and learning. I learned to appreciate reflection, introspection and discussing social issues in a volunteer social club at McMaster called Community Volunteer Action Group. It's a great organization doing tremendous work in the poorest regions of Hamilton. From disabled adults to first generation immigrants, the work this group has managed to do with limited funding is simply amazing. I'm going to post their most recent newsletter and hope that someone will be inspired enough to donate to such an amazing group of people. I was a member for a number of years an I've seen first hand the impact student volunteers have on a community.

Even if you can't donate, I hope people are at least inspired to volunteer in their community. And not just merely doing your duty but critically thinking and analyzing the social issues, your role and the impact made by serving and being served. If you have children, take them with you and make sure you talk about what you've seen and why it's important to stay committed. So many agencies are in need of help which they simply cannot afford. By giving a bit of your time I promise you will gain a lifetime's worth of wisdom and a deeper appreciation for the human spirit. 

You might be wondering what this has to do with teaching.  Frankly, to me it means everything!  Without the ability to think, analyze and discuss the events happening in our lives, we can't grow, develop or learn.  Starting that first discussion can deepen a child's awareness and make them an effective citizen of this earth with powerful thoughts and the potential to change the world for the better. 

http://homepage.mac.com/dkaulback/soc/CVA_Winter_2009.pdf