In reflection

My project certainly started as one thing and evolved into something completely different. In the future, it may be easier to pick a single project (helping out at a soup kitchen) and focus entirely on that than to pick a theme (kids, including those my age and those with fur) and do several smaller projects within that theme. However, I would say this project has been largely successful.

I think that my project did positively impact the community. When I worked GI Joe Day, I realized just how many military kids there are as compared to volunteers willing to work with them. The ratio is pretty large. We were already understaffed, and the head of the project was very thankful for each set of hands she had working.

Similarly, there are relatively few people working in libraries compared to how many people utilize them. So many people do the summer reading programs at their local libraries, and some parents rely on the libraries to provide free, enriching activities for their kids. The librarians are happy to provide, but need extra help with the basics before they can focus on extra activities. I like to think that I took a weight off of the librarians' shoulders so that they could spend more time planning and executing their extra programs.

The choir project, of course, only affects the choir. However, an organized library could provide so much to the choir club. For one, having an organized music library helps the choir keep track of its music so we do not have to repurchase lost copies. Because the choir can find any piece we own (and not just what's on the top of the stack), the repertoire has increased, which also brings more music into the community at large. Organizing the music library has also brought the officers closer together, which I hope will equate to a stronger, more unified choir.

In short, as a teenager without many connections or special skills, I may not yet be able to create a project that directly affects people in my community at large. However, I can volunteer my time to those who can do that in order to make their work more efficient. This was my first large service project, but I doubt it will be my last.