Some people blaze a trail for others to follow, while others use a different technique. Jami Burrell, a volunteer at the Augusta M. LaVarnway Boys & Girls Club, began its popular Sewing Club five years ago. She has taught members more than how to sew on a machine; she taught them to believe in themselves and their abilities.
With her help, Club members have sewn everything from quilts to backpacks. In addition to the Sewing Club, Jami assists and recruits volunteers for other LaVarnway activities. Since 2003, Jami has organized pumpkin carving activities in the art room for Halloween. And for the past two years, she recruited her colleagues from General Mills to donate their time as volunteers, including helping prepare LaVarnway's annual Thanksgiving dinner and other holiday events. Jami's spirit and enthusiasm motivates and inspires all of those around her. Prior to volunteering at LaVarnway, Jamie volunteered at for 13 years the Galt Boys & Girls Club in Lodi, California, where her General Mills plant was located. The company recognized her in 2005 with its Vanguard Volunteer Award winners, a national honor given to only five people each year.
When Charlie Rosenberg dropped by the Mary Ryan Club last January, he intended only to say hello to long-time friend Brenda Carter, the Club's office manager. But when Brenda's son Joshua, a Club member, asked for help with his history homework, Charlie just couldn't say no.
After that first homework help session, Joshua asked if Charlie would come back the next day. Charlie, who had recently relocated to Milwaukee after a long period of travel, agreed. So began the story of one of Mary Ryan's most dedicated volunteers.
Four afternoons a week, Club members can find Charlie in Mary Ryan's library. He spends nearly four hours a day there, helping with everything from math to reading. He's always gravitated towards youth, he says, and knows he's filling a void in members' lives. "They're all very smart kids," he said. "But they need a little bit of help learning what they need to know. Unfortunately, several are on the verge of being convinced they're not smart enough - I expect all of them to do very well."
"Charlie can really get the kids focused," said Carla Jackson, Mary Ryan's program director. "And he's helping with more than just homework. He's also teaching several members to play chess!"
Charlie, who has no children, welcomes the four hours at Mary Ryan as part of his daily routine. "As long as I'm here and the opportunity presents itself, I'll continue steadily," he added.