Volunteering in life

Every year in March our Sales Manager, Sharon Noble, and I attend the Annual Convention of The Parenting Media Association and the Editorial & Design Awards Dinner. Every year since we started entering we have come back with some awards and this year was no exception. Congratulations to our wonderful team of writers who are individually mentioned in the article inside this issue and on our website, www.NYParenting.com.

Truthfully, I absolutely love meeting with my colleagues from around the country and the English-speaking world. Being a member of The Parenting Media Association is so satisfying and I have learned a great deal over the years from the consistent interaction with other professionals in our niche.

When I first started going 14 years ago, I had no idea that I would someday become the President of this wonderful association. But just a few weeks ago I did. After years of volunteering in a variety of ways, I had worked my way up the ladder, onto the Board of Directors and had become an Officer. Now I am the President.

Similarly, when I attended my first PTA meeting, I had no idea that by the following year I would also be the President. I guess I’m one of those people, a volunteer, someone who always gets involved. Being a joiner expands your horizons and introduces into your world a whole network of new faces and personalities. Not everyone is a joiner type but if you’re not, you should try a bit harder to become one.

As one of my colleagues has said, “from the moment I signed on and/or raised my hand, my information increased and my education was in full swing.” Keep in mind also what a good role model it is for your children, to see you participating and active. They will also be inclined to participate, to get involved and be vital as they progress through school and life.

Since we all know that most people learn by example, setting this kind of example early in your children’s lives can only facilitate the possibility of them become leaders in their own lives. The various rewards derived from belonging to reputable clubs, societies, or organizations grow more valuable all the time. In such a complex and competitive world the benefits one can establish expand in importance.

Taking the time to join the parent association or to coach a team or teach a class in something you do with gusto is a marvelous way to show your children that you care about them, who they are and who they might become. They will profit in every way from your involvement and in addition you will be enhanced with the pleasure of new friends and new ideas.

Thanks for reading. Happy Spring! Celebrate the Earth!