Here at Eastlake High School, many students spend their time helping others and helping out around their communities. Volunteering is a way for students to give back to their community, and there are many from Eastlake who participate.
Where are Eastlake students volunteering?
Students at Eastlake High School enjoy volunteering for a variety of organizations. Sashrika Ramisetty (’27), a sophomore student, volunteers at a non-profit organization called Be Bold Girls, which aims to empower young women around the world. Two other Eastlake students, Marie Wick (’27) and Dagny Davis (’27), both volunteer for Sammamish Animal Sanctuary and the Red Barn Farm. In addition, many students spend their time giving back to other schools. For example, Lily Ramírez (’27) has volunteered at McAuliffe Elementary in the past, which she used to attend when she was younger. Saranya Sriramula (’25), a senior, spends time with COPE Junior Health Scholars, a program that allows students to observe and care for hospital patients.
Why do students volunteer?
Students share different reasons for volunteering. Ramisetty (’27) states, “I volunteer to help my peers get the opportunities and chances I have in life. It’s simply to give back to the community which has given so much to me.” Many students feel the same way, with Wick (’27) sharing, “I volunteer to hang out with my friends, help my community, and as an opportunity to spend time with animals.” Volunteering gives students a chance to create change and positively impact others. Some students enjoy volunteering because it helps them pursue their passions outside of school. Ramírez (’27) supports that by saying, “I volunteer because I enjoy helping people and making things easier and more efficient at events.” Based on student feedback, volunteering has many benefits for students who are interested in improving their communities and gaining valuable life experience.
What have students learned?
Volunteering is also a great opportunity to learn new things and develop new skills. Students at Eastlake describe the benefits of volunteering, with Ramisetty (’27) claiming, “I have learned to be grateful for everything I have and to always seek ways to help others who are not as fortunate as me.” Volunteering also helps students learn more about their passions. Davis (’27) says, “From volunteering I have learned everything about animals that I know. Animals have also taught me how to be responsible for myself and others.” In addition, some students have discovered more about themselves through their volunteering. Sriramula (’25), says, “I’ve developed my personality from the numerous experiences and interactions I’ve had through volunteering, which has brought me further than I ever could have expected.”
Do students recommend volunteering?
Most students highly recommend volunteering, especially because according to them it’s a chance to give back to others and help your community. When asked if she recommended volunteering, Ramisetty (’27) said, “Of course! Volunteering teaches so many life lessons and is a great opportunity to meet new friends with similar interests.” Students agree with this positive sentiment when it comes to volunteering. Davis (’27) also said, “I highly recommend volunteering because it has taught me so much, helped me meet some of my best friends, and given me some amazing experiences like horseback riding, walking baby goats, and much more.” Given these opinions, it is clear that students at Eastlake value helping others and encourage others to do the same.
With so many students at Eastlake involved in volunteering, it’s important to recognize the hard work happening in our community. This time of year is all about giving back, and Eastlake students consistently show their gratitude through their volunteering.
