By Louise Caccamise & Debra Sheffield
Photos by Bob Dunham
Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart. – Elizabeth Andrew
A group of five John Knox Village residents have started volunteering at Orange City Elementary School in a variety of areas including working with students, assisting teachers and helping with school events. They speak of the benefits of volunteering as providing both personal satisfaction and social interaction.
Orange City Elementary volunteers, Trish Tutt, Fred Hagman, Don Tutt, Maureen Dunham and Debra Sheffield.
Fred Hagman and Debra Sheffield started out by helping to paint pumpkins at the October Fall Festival, which they called great messy fun. Fred Hagman said he felt as if he gets more from the experience in the classroom than he gives. Debra Sheffield spoke of how exciting it is to be back in the classroom. She said, “I love their enthusiasm for learning – they make me smile.”
Don Tutt, retired from a long career in education, is volunteering in the school Media Center and spoke of still feeling a connection with youth.
Trish Tutt is enjoying ABC games with the kindergarten children. She said, “Seeing their delight in learning is infectious.”
Marianne Berkes pictured with Orange City Elementary students.
Maureen Dunham said, “Wow! I can’t even explain what a joy it was to walk in and become a part of this fourth grade class. I am enjoying each session with this group of youngsters and their very capable teacher.”
In addition to the five volunteers mentioned, children’s author, Marianne Berkes, has been reading some of her books to kindergarten through second graders. She recently shared her latest book, Over on a Desert: Somewhere in the World.
In addition to the five volunteers mentioned, children’s author, Marianne Berkes, has been reading some of her books to kindergarten through second graders. She recently shared her latest book, Over on a Desert: Somewhere in the World.
According to school statistics, over 274 volunteers contributed 14,041 hours at Orange City School last year. We are proud of all our volunteers from John Knox who have joined this group and are actively participating in our Orange City community.
If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Debra Sheffield.