ChildServe volunteers offer significant time and talents to the children we serve. Whether they are going to the zoo, serving pancakes at a fundraiser, or just reading a book, our volunteers support great life for the children and families we serve.
At age 14, Derek Shaver is already an integral member of the volunteer program. Though he didn't begin volunteering until the age of 8, ChildServe has always been part of his life. When Derek was just an infant, he often visited ChildServe with his grandmother. Now, while most kids his age are playing video games or baseball, Derek can be found helping his dad and grandpa outside, mowing yards, or interacting with the kids at ChildServe.
"Volunteering is very rewarding. It makes you feel good," says Derek.
So good in fact, that over the past year Derek has spent almost 160 hours with the children and staff at ChildServe's Continuing Care Unit. Volunteering 2-4 times each week, Derek is involved with walking groups, Drama Club, Winter Wonderland Festival, bowling, skating, going to the movies, visiting the Science Center, going to I-Cubs games and the Iowa State Fair. Derek admits he likes field trips best because the kids get to experience things they don't usually get to do.
Kendra Lerdal, Recreational Therapist, has worked with Derek for two years, "Derek is always willing to help out with what we ask him. We appreciate him a lot!"
Derek's motivation comes from knowing that the kids like him coming to visit. "The kids enjoy Derek's visits as shown through smiles, vocalizations, and talking with him," says Lerdal. In addition, the skills Derek has learned as a volunteer will help him someday reach his goal of becoming an elementary or 8th grade teacher.
Though his friends think spending time with children with special needs is both interesting and weird, Derek tells them "the kids can't do as much as us, but they are still the same as us."
Volunteer Spotlight
