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Gabriel Read

Published: March 29, 2009

The timing could not be better with three events that occurred this past weekend (March 15) Mentoring article in Parade Magazine, a seminar on bullying in North Carolina and good deeds by citizens across the country.

Highlands County has a lot of those good citizens, volunteering in various areas of our community. The timing element is that summer is approaching and volunteers will be needed to fill the void left by our snowbirds heading north as we speak. Half of our volunteers are those snowbirds.

With our dire economic environment, the need is greater than ever. Sunday's article documents the miracle of mentoring; it has a positive effect on both the mentor and mentee. The bullying issue is about a town developing a seminar program mentoring the bullies, an exceptional concept. Instead of trying to jail them, town leaders are rehabilitating them! Thus, bullying and fear have been drastically reduced.

The third event is NBC TV's effort to broadcast the Good Deeds of ordinary citizens from coast to coast. We literally have millions of unsung heroes who help stabilize life for many in need. This is remarkable, especially today. So, the local folks need to fill the void left by our faithful snowbirds. With school out, our kids need guidance in wholesome activities. School will continue for eight weeks and other programs will be available, if these kids can get to them; another great opportunity to give back.

Gabriel Read
Secretary Sebring Optimist Club Avon Park

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