Volunteer and help a friend!

With so many demands on our time, it is all too easy to neglect the needs of others. But are we all really so busy that we can’t volunteer for just 20 minutes and 12 seconds every now and again? Set up a 2012 volunteering board for posting requests for assistance, and offers of help that require a commitment of no more than 20 minutes and 12 seconds. Supporting and encouraging volunteering in this way not only fosters the Olympic and Paralympic Value of friendship, but can also lead to great acts of inspiration. There are bound to be people in your school in need of a volunteer’… …students who would like a friendly critic for a presentation rehearsal; teachers who would like help with clearing out a cupboard; your school office may have a large pile of post in need of franking; even your school caretaker might need assistance from time to time. When someone has some time to give, they look at the tasks on offer on the notice board, contact the person who needs the help, and arrange to be volunteer your time for 20 minutes and 12 seconds. There are bound to be people happy to advertise themselves as volunteers too…. …a student who is good at teaching juggling; a parent who speaks a second language; a local University lecturer willing to run a 20 minute 12 second activity in a lesson; or a local charity eager to hold a 20 minute 12 second fund-raising event at your school. Anyone with expertise or an idea may choose to advertise themselves as a volunteer on your 2012 Volunteering notice board as well.