May 2005 - Emily Smith
Emily Smith volunteered with her mother at church functions, decided that she liked it and has been very busy sharing her time and talents ever since. She was awarded the May Volunteer of the Month Award because of her dedication to helping others.
Smith, a high school sophomore, spends one to two hours two times weekly tutoring college algebra with a special client. The client was thrilled with the semester grade she received and is looking forward to her next class with Emily's help. Dealing with the effects of Huntington's disease, studying a difficult subject and keeping up with daily tasks were overwhelming. Having Emily's help in addressing one of the obstacles - algebra - has made a huge difference. The client's mother wrote, "Emily has shown my daughter the greatest of patience anyone could give a person. Emily is one of the few teenagers that I have met to be responsible, caring, patient and most of all intelligent." The time Emily spends tutoring is greatly appreciated.
With her parents being involved with Farmers Union, Emily has been assisting with Day Camp for the past three years. She helps plan for the day's activities for approximately 35 - 40 children ages 8 - 13. Smith was awarded for her efforts by attending the 2004 State Legislature with Farmers Union. She also was awarded a trip to Minneapolis for leadership training and educational tours.
Smith is quick to help out when her church has a project in progress. She has assisted with Care Packages for college students, mass mailing of the stewardship packets, Soup Kitchens, serving at the Banquet, children's Halloween Party at the Knights of Columbus and the annual Church Bazaar.
She has assisted with Child Watch where personal data is documented for child safety, she enjoys playing piano for HSC Geriatrics Unit around Christmas and for the last three years she and her sister have participated in "Dress A Doll" sponsored by Hatch Furniture.
Emily Smith is on the run - in volunteering and in track and cross-country during the school year as well as holding the position of student manager for wrestling. Using her mind, heart and hands for others keep the days full and productive but most of all, Emily Smith is making a positive difference in the lives of many.