I have always grown up doing community service by oppurtunities through my church, school, and family. When I was younger I helped out with the "Best Buddy Program." From elementary school until high school I volunteered with the mentally and physically disabled and handicapped. I helped with during school classes and after school homework and games. Also, through church I volunteered with the elderly, singing Christmas Carols, playing Bingo, cleaning houses, gardening, spending time with them at their home or a nursing home. As I got into college I volunteered with Big Brother/ Big Sister program and mentored at Fort Caroline Elementary School for two years. I have done Relay for Life for three years now. For my sorority's philanthropy we go to St. Vincents hospital and help out in the childrens unit. I also volunteered at Trinity Rescue Mission for the homeless helping out with the Lifeline drug rehab program, feeding the overnighters, as well as with the women and children center. I took a Sociology of Aging class and helped out with the elderly, in nursing homes and such just spending time with the elderly.

I don't think community service should be of more benefit for the people who help out, but it should be more towards those we are helping. I am a Psychology and Sociology major so my passion has always been being involved with people. I view everyone as equal, and I think that everyone should have the same opportunities in life as everyone else. Unfortunately, that seems impossible in this world, but I like to believe it will happen before I die :) I think that people who volunteer learn as much from those they help, if not more! Seeing a different side of life can always be an eye opener.

I think the kids will get a great benefit from volunteering with them in Ecuador. They will learn from the different blend of cultures, languages, and personalities. Even if it is just for a few hours, they will gain happiness and fun from playing games and even just talking to them and spending time with them.

I think that everyone is responsible for doing community service. I believe that young people should mainly do it most, because they will grow up continually volunteering. Everyone can benefit from volunteering, and I think it's important for everyone to be involved with each other.