MRGB-AHEC Students Serve Veterans
Local military veterans commented on the smiling faces and energetic attitudes of our 20+ student visitors on Saturday March 2nd for the AHEC Student Leadership Program. In spite of the early time and cold weather, the young group gathered in support of veterans via the Volunteers Serving the Need program. Working in teams they cleaned stores, organized supplies, served coffee, greeted veterans, carried groceries and engaged in conversation with aging veterans who had selflessly given time and talents while active duty. Pupils representing all local high schools look forward to this monthly weekend volunteering where they eagerly interact with veterans to do anything necessary to make them smile. For these students, volunteering is more than something for special occasions, “it is about creating opportunities that make a difference…every chance you get” remarked one of the young people. Following their full day’s work, students met with AHEC staff to discuss future community projects, socialize with their peers and exchange feelings about the volunteer experiences. Collectively, they expressed a sense of project unity and accomplishment. VSTN CEO Gigi Ramos shared words of advice (& some snacks) with the beaming volunteers before AHEC Executive Director Julie Bazan finished with, “We are privileged to have youth committed to helping others; their optimism and kindness make everything better for our veterans”. Currently there are over 200 students actively enrolled in an AHEC Student Leadership Program open to all high schoolers. Registrants learn about higher education opportunities, health careers and leadership development skills and are then encouraged to serve throughout the community — especially health care settings that assist underserved and vulnerable populations.
