Our lives are so hectic and busy that it is easy to forget to take a moment, catch our breath and remember all that we have to be grateful for. Among many things, I am grateful that our children had the opportunity to attend Flint Hill. The individualized education they received shaped them into the strong, compassionate young adults they have become.
During my school years, my parents set an example for me by giving their time and energy by volunteering at my schools, so it was natural for me to volunteer at Flint Hill. For those who know me well, you know that I am innately very shy. I had to step out of my box and comfort zone to volunteer. Although it was at hard for me at times, I knew that it was the right thing to do. What I did not fully understand before volunteering, was the joy volunteering would bring me; knowing that in some small way, I was helping.
Volunteering (in particular, for a specific event) can be much like putting a puzzle together. There are so many pieces that must fit together to make the puzzle whole. It takes a wonderfully diverse, energetic group to put it together and each person brings their own set of skills. Once that puzzle is complete, there is pride, both for the individual and for the group, in what has been accomplished. Volunteering at Flint Hill is similar to that puzzle. But that pride in what has been accomplished is not short lived. The impact that is made can be seen and felt now and in the future — as a volunteer, you will have made a lasting impact at Flint Hill.
November brings much to be grateful for — Thanksgiving of course, but also the Flint Hill Holiday Shoppes. The Holiday Shoppes has always been a highlight for me, and for so many others here at Flint Hill and in the greater community. This event is a shining example of the many volunteers who come together to create a memorable event for so many of us. The first year the idea for a holiday market was presented, it was a bit scary. Could we pull it off? Would it be successful? Parents Elise Abt and Mary Lee Brendsel were co-chairs of the Holiday Shoppes that year, and in typical Flint Hill fashion, volunteers stepped up, worked hard, and held a great community event. A new Flint Hill tradition was born, and we will celebrate its 15th anniversary on Saturday!
As I have volunteered over the years at Flint Hill, I have seen that we all have a common goal — to enhance the educational experience for all of the School’s students. But while working together for this common goal, friendships were formed, and we had a lot of fun!
In conclusion, become involved. Give the gift of yourself and your time. You will make friends, you will have fun, you will make an impact, and I promise there will be many people who are very thankful for what you have done.
About Sally Hazel
A past parent and current Trustee, Sally Hazel has a legacy of service and volunteerism at Flint Hill. Prior to serving on the Board of Trustees, Sally has been a room parent; pizza day chair and volunteer; Parents’ Association Board grade rep, secretary, and president; gala chair and co-chair; and has given her time to the Holiday Shoppes, Uniform Exchange, Homecoming, Winterfest, Tennis Social, Grandparents and Special Friends Day and Teacher Appreciation Week. Ever the philanthropist, the Parent’s Association Endowment for Financial Aid is named in her honor.