As volunteer appreciation day passes Cindy Leonard and Maggie Albright walk through the front doors of the school and think of all the future and past events they have planned.
“ I have been volunteering since 1995 when David (her oldest child) was in kindergarten,” Leonard said.
The power duo started volunteering because they wanted to help their children’s teacher, but soon spread to volunteering in their community.
“I have been in the Women’s Club of Prince George for 16 years now. We do community events including farmers markets,” Albright said.
Inside the school system Leonard’s and Albright’s favorite event to plan is the book fairs.
“ I love working with the kids, especially elementary age, spreading the love of reading reading is the most important thing you can help a child learn to love,” Albright said.
“Book fairs are my favorite because I feel like I can help promote the adventure of reading for kids. I have done them for so long the kids know that when I come to the school the book fair is coming and it’s like Christmas,” Leonard said.
Besides helping the community and schools Leonard and Albright have made some of their best friends through volunteering.
“ Through the year I have developed amazing relationship, including Maggie [Albright],” Leonard said.
Over the years they have also learned new things and have been shaped by volunteering.
“It gives you realization of what goes on and needs to be done in schools and in the community,” Albright said.
For future volunteers Leonard said, “Give as much time as you can to your school and community. It can go a long way to making a difference.”
