On the eve before the last day of school, a group of dedicated UWATX Young Leaders Society members volunteered at Webb Middle School ‘prom,’ allowing teachers to take a small break from a very hectic week. The Webb prom is held to honor 8th grade students graduating from middle school.
YLS members were excited to help celebrate the student’s hard work and academic achievements at this special event. Members helped set up red carpets, prepared tables and hung decorations from the walls of the gymnasium. Once the gym was prepped, YLS members stuck around and chaperoned the dance as the students danced the night away. YLS members had the opportunity to interact with Webb faculty and staff and some of the students they had volunteered with throughout the year.
We asked two YLS members about their experiences volunteering at the Webb prom.
How long have you been involved with the Young Leaders Society?
John Fahy: I have been involved with YLS for about three years now. I was one of the first community ambassadors for Kerbey Lane Cafe; Kerbey introduced me to YLS and gave me opportunities to pursue my passion for philanthropy.
Ward Hoffman: I have been involved with YLS somewhere between two to three years.
What was your favorite part of volunteering at the dance?
John Fahy: My favorite part of volunteering at the dance was knowing how much we were helping the teachers and other staff members. It was the last week of school and they had so much work to do to end the school year successfully.
Ward Hoffman: Seeing some of the kids I volunteered with over the year having fun was my favorite part of volunteering.
What other YLS volunteer projects have you enjoyed?
John Fahy: My favorite part of YLS is going to the afterschool program at Mendez Middle School. I feel I have been able to build great relationships with the students. Working with the students is also one of the most rewarding things I have done.
Ward Hoffman: Making breakfast for the folks at the Ronald McDonald House and giving kids nightmares at the Decker Haunted House.
What is one piece of advice you would give to a middle school student?
John Fahy: Do not ever give up no matter how hard the challenge might be. You can overcome anything as long as you keep trying.
Ward Hoffman: Middle school is super awkward so always be yourself. If you can survive middle school, you can survive anything!