Make A Difference Day

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Make a Difference Day proves successful outing for volunteers

By Carrie Forrister
Staff Writer

Volunteers from Georgia Highlands College left armed with crayons, colored paper and other crafts material to brighten the day of both the elderly and the young and in hopes of really connecting with each.

Their efforts were part of the Oct. 26 National Make a Difference day; a day when volunteers from around the country do various projects to give back to the community. Led by Amanda Mays, student volunteer's services coordinator, the volunteers' goal was to recognize the importance of generations.
Amanda Mays helps with card making
Their first stop was at a children's home named Open Door House. Here the volunteers played with the children and used the art supplies they had brought to help them make greeting cards for six individuals at a local nursing home. The visitors left smiling and laughing, and the children at the home were smiling too.

The group's next stop was at Winthrop Manor. Here they gave the cards that the children had made to the residents.

Before leaving the nursing home the group asked the residents if they had any advice for the students at Georgia Highlands College.

"Education is extremely important... really try to improve yourself in all ways," said Ms. Lois White. "...stick to what you really believe in!," she continued.

"Stay in school, continue your education. If you don't, you're lost," said Andrew Christian.

"Strive to do the best you can," said Mary Beam.

"Love your fellow man, everyone can use a word of kindness" was Katherine Brown's advice.

Not only did this trip mean a lot to those visited but also to the volunteers themselves.

Brian Armstrong assists a child with his card Mays said, "It's a really cool thing when you can make a distinction between volunteering to get a reward from society and volunteering because of your need to be needed and knowing that what you did affected someone."

Volunteers are always needed. Anyone interested in volunteering for upcoming projects may contact Mays at (706) 295-6363 or come by the Student Life Office.