Mission Southside by Abigail

Mission Southside by Abigail - April 2022 Scholarship Essay

Being involved in numerous national honor societies including: NHS, Spanish NHS, Rho Kappa NHS and even inducted as president of Art NHS has led me to involve myself into countless volunteer hours that I have been grateful to take part in. I have been serving in my church ever since I have been able, which has created a strong foundation in the importance of volunteer work and how the impact it can create upon those being served.
I would like to share an experience that I had at Mission Southside, a local charity in Olathe, Kansas. I was recommended to volunteer at Mission Southside by my teacher when I was searching for opportunities. I didn't think much of the place because I really hadn’t heard much about it. When I arrived I was immediately taken back by the amount of people that had come to help pack and send out boxes of food for the less fortunate in our own community. Each volunteer had a smile on their face and was working hard to do their part in the assembly line. As soon as I could, I jumped right in and started working. It amazed me that all of these people were so passionate and joyful about serving their community. They are consistent about giving back and helping others. This was a prime example of what being selfless means and about having a kind heart for your community. I learned a lesson that day that serving is about doing what you can, but with love and compassion for the people you do it for.
Since this day, I have been back several times to do my part for this organization. Each time I do, I am reminded of the important impact each of my actions have on my community and am reminded of the reason why I do it.