It’s easy to match your interests and hobbies with what’s available in your community, but don’t be afraid to explore something a little different. Be adventuresome! Every volunteer opportunity is worthwhile.

“There’s something really special for a child about a book that’s all their own. It doesn’t have to be returned to the library, and they can take it home to keep and cherish. The Texas Retired Teachers Association started the Children’s Book Project in 1998. Now local units all across the state give books to school children in need.

The state organization leaves a lot of the details—such as how to fundraise and how to determine which children will receive books—up to the local units. In Allen, we choose one elementary school, usually a Title I school, and we give a book to every child who attends that school. Last year we gave out almost 650 books!

After the books are purchased and sorted by grade level, volunteers take them to school. We usually read a story to the children and tell them that we used to be teachers.

Then, the real fun starts: We tell them that they can take the books home. That’s the best part: interacting with the children and watching their faces light up when they get their books.

This project has grown so much since it started that some of our units even give books to local shelters now. Books are important and special for children of all ages and circumstances, and I’m so happy to see our units across the state filling that need.”