Hello Friends and Happy Friday Eve!

Today, my youngest begins volunteering at the Food Bank of Delaware. It’s so very hard to find summer employment for teenagers these days, and he needs gas money, so I made him a deal.  He will volunteer 3 hours a day, 3 times a week helping to prepare free summer meals for kids, and I will pay him $50.00 a week for gas and savings.

As a 17 year old male, it’s important for him to build a good work ethic, but to have an opportunity to work in a field that gives back builds character.  I want him to understand that not everyone lives a privileged life and that we all have an obligation to help others. Whether it’s in donating money, clothing, food or time, we should all reach out into our communities to lend a helping hand.

Growing up in a housing project in New Rochelle, NY, my sister and I attended summer programs that provided free lunches.  Even back then, I knew this not only helped us but our grandmother as well, and that it was important to be grateful.  It would upset me when other kids would smash the milk cartons or throw away the fruit, I knew there were others even less fortunate who would have loved to have had that milk or piece of fruit.

If your High School student is also having a hard time finding employment for the summer, consider a volunteer opportunity in your area, it can also be a good topic for their Senior Project.

Have a fantastical day – Smooches!