As a senior at Lake Highlands High School, Courtney Spearman has spent her high school years showing initiative when reaching out to help others.
When asked to research a potential reading project at an elementary school, Courtney didnÕt just collect information. She established a monthly reading program Ð setting dates, asking teachers for reading lists, collecting donated books and assigning students.
As a volunteer for the Dallas Life Foundation, Courtney saw a need to provide Christmas gifts for children living at the downtown shelter. She organized a toy drive at Lake Highlands High School and collected so many toys that they had to be distributed to other agencies, as well. She recruited her peers to wrap the toys and hosted a Christmas party at the shelter.
Courtney has also offered her assistance during the Dallas Life FoundationÕs annual fund-raising auction, picked up trash at White Rock Lake and visited with senior citizens at a neighborhood nursing home.
ÒCourtney gets so enthusiastic about her projects that they grow into bigger projects each day,Ó says Laura Lara, teacher and student council co-sponsor at Lake Highlands High School. ÒNot only does she keep improving her projects in theory Ð she also takes the initiative to put the projects into practice.Ó
Courtney was one of three Lake Highlands High School students recently nominated for the Volunteer Center of Dallas CountyÕs Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Awards. Angela Avery and Beth Wilkes also were honored.
For information on volunteer opportunities with the Dallas Life Foundation and other nonprofit organizations, call the Volunteer Center at 214-826-6767.
Neighborhood resident Julie Clapp works for the non-profit Volunteer Center of Dallas County. Send comments to her at 6301 Gaston, Suite 820, Dallas 75214; FAX to 214-823-8866; or e-mail to editor@advocatemag.com.
