1. What school do you teach at and which club do you advise?
I am the staff advisor for the Hands4Hope Club at Sutter Middle School in Folsom.
2. What is your impression/experience with Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference?
I am blown away by the impact that Hands4Hope has on people's lives. Just our little club at Sutter has touched so many people's lives in a positive way, that it brings me to tears sometimes. I am also so touched and proud of the students who participate in the organization. Year after year, these students are the most empathetic, kind, and loving human beings I have ever had the pleasure to work with. I love being surrounded by their energy and spirit.
3. Is there anything that you've enjoyed most/been most surprised by interacting with the club?
It never ceases to amaze me how many wonderful, selfless youth are "out there" on my school campus who have so much love in their hearts and yearn to make a difference in other people's lives. I also giggle when I think about the fact that the students always want to help animals before they consider other causes. I guess I shouldn't be surprised that everyone just adores animals! Before I wanted to be a teacher, I wanted to be a veterinarian!
4. Is there anything else that you would like to add?
I didn't know anything about Hands4Hope before I took on the role of Staff Advisor. To be honest, I took over this role as a favor for the previous staff advisor who was transferring to another school. Little did I know what exactly I was jumping into headfirst, and wow, was I lucky to have discovered the joy I have received from this organization. I don't think I would have ever participated in some of the volunteer activities or charitable events that I have with this club if it hadn't been for Hands4Hope. Sometimes in life, we lose sight of what's important outside of our little bubble. Hands4Hope provides so much opportunity to do for others, and as a lifelong Christian, that's so deeply meaningful for me.