By KOREY FERRINGER- Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community. It can strengthen community bonds and improve the attitude of residents. But most importantly, volunteering makes a difference in the world. And with all the opportunities at the senior high, it’s easy to do. Along with the senior high, the Indiana community also offers a variety of volunteer opportunities.

One way to volunteer is through the YMCA. The YMCA has countless opportunities that range from volunteering at an adult baseball game, to the Big Hearts Little Hands project. Big Hearts Little Hands is a volunteer program that focuses on mentoring youth groups. Another position at the YMCA is helping with maintenance around the buildings.

The Miracle League is a volunteer opportunity that many students at the senior high take advantage of. Miracle League is a baseball league for individuals who have disabilities. In most games, groups of volunteers can be found helping players. These volunteers can recollect the baseball if it goes out of the field, assist players during the game, and do many other jobs.    

The Indiana Humane Society has opportunities to walk and groom the dogs.  Freshman Abigail Killam said, “ Walking dogs made me feel very happy because at the time I really wanted a dog.” Four Footed Friends, another shelter, also has a few volunteering opportunities similar to those at the Humane Society.

Key Club is another good club to look into for volunteer opportunities. Key Club has over fifty volunteer positions for anyone to take. Senior Ella Spadafora said, “ It’s really easy to join, we have twenty juniors and seniors who are willing to help anyone who would want to join.”

Along with Key Club, many other service organizations at IHS offer volunteering opportunities. Clubs such as ATHENA, Me to We, Sendracs, and many more are all great ways to get involved.

Many students at the Senior High know how and where to volunteer. Freshman Ben Nettleton offered this piece of advice for anyone looking for a volunteer opportunity, “ You can always volunteer at the Indiana Community Guidance Center.”

At IHS and all around Indiana, there are plenty of opportunities for those who want to volunteer. Most of the time people who volunteer get recognized for what they do, be it an email, or just a simple thank you. But, in the end, the result should not be the external reward, but the betterment of the community and the world.

[Photo by Korey Ferringer]

Photo caption: Volunteers help out at the miracle league softball game.