Aaron May: A special volunteer for Specialized Needs Recreation
More than a decade ago, Aaron May's mother was faced with a Spring Break week of video games for her 12-year-old son. She encouraged Aaron to "tag along" with her while volunteering in the community, rather than staying at home.
"Kicking and screaming," claims May, "I was dragged out of my little gaming chair and placed in my Mom's car. I didn't want to go, but when we arrived, I decided to make the best of it. As soon as I entered that gym - I saw balls flying through the air, children sitting together playing hand games, and a group of people swaying in front of a stereo to Cher's 'If I Could Turn Back Time.' - I knew instantly that this was going to be fun."
May had so much fun and had such an impact on the participants that Angie Goucher, director of Specialized Needs Recreation asked if May would return for the rest of the week. And the rest is history in a 13-year commitment May has made to the organization.
Specialized Needs Recreation (SNR) offers various recreation programs for youth and adults who have challenges participating in other programs because of a learning disability, sensory impairment, mental, emotional or physical handicap. This means the focus of the program is on fun, creativity, and a much needed social atmosphere, rather than on Individual Education Plans like the school system and other agencies is required to facilitate.
The most important part of volunteering with Specialized Needs Recreation is the commitment to spend time with the participants. The average day for many participants is full of structure and lacking socialization. However, each has unique and amazing characteristics. "You must learn with them, talk with them, laugh, love, and support them," said May. "I cannot emphasize enough how important it is to get to be their friend. That is really, honestly, the best part of volunteering with SNR."
Through volunteering, May has learned work ethics such as shift accountability, being on time, and taking and following directions, all of which is an integral part of not only being a volunteer with this organization, but a life skill that will carry with him throughout his adult career.
"SNR has impacted my life in so many ways," said May. "I couldn't even begin to recount them all. Most significantly, it has opened the door for me to be patient, to learn to accept other people and their beliefs, increased my leadership skills, introduced me to work related fields that I otherwise would have overlooked, and finally, taught me how to be a better friend to those in need."
"I don't think I have ever had a volunteer that has been as dedicated to the organization as Aaron," said Goucher. "We have many dedicated volunteers, but none that have volunteered as long. The kids just love him and he works so hard to ensure they are enjoying themselves, creating new and fun ideas for them to participate in. I can't express how much I appreciate his commitment to SNR."
Aaron May attended Lakeland High, spending most of his time studying music. He continued on to North Idaho College for music composition, but has also found an interest in the medical field. He recently achieved an Emergency Medical Technician-B certification and plans apply for the radiology tech program or the nursing program in the fall.
Volunteer Opportunity: Filling household goods orders for previously homeless
We've Got Stuff helps folks who are coming out of homelessness or other negative life circumstance by supplying household goods free of charge. It takes many volunteers to pull orders and get the goods out to clients. Volunteers are needed on Monday, Thursday or Friday for 2-4 hours a week.
Some volunteers need to be able to lift 20 pounds or more, and enjoy cleaning, and sorting. Job training provided.
For more information on how to help We've Got Stuff, visit www.kootenaiunitedway.org, click on the "VOLUNTEER" link to view this listing and other volunteer opportunities in YOUR community, or contact Jeanette Laster at United Way of Kootenai County, (208) 667-8112, Ext. 101.
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The United Way of Kootenai County Volunteer Center
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* "One-Stop Volunteer Resource Center" for the whole community
* Ongoing and one-time volunteer opportunities
* TAKE ACTION - (208) 667-8112
Visit the United Way's Volunteer Center website: www.kootenaiunitedway.org
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