Teaching the Importance of Volunteering:

Being a well-rounded citizen requires more than financial literacy.  That’s why the Job Foundation helps students learn the value of giving back.   It includes understanding the value of giving back—through charitable giving and volunteering.

This year, we’ve been especially excited to bring those lessons to life through hands-on volunteer experiences.

Our high school students had the opportunity to spread kindness by creating heartfelt cards for residents at Friendship Village. These simple yet meaningful gestures reminded students that even small acts of care can brighten someone’s day.

Our middle school students took their volunteering a step further with a visit to the Northeast Iowa Food Bank. There, they rolled up their sleeves and got to work in the cold room—an experience many of them won’t forget anytime soon. Their task was to package sausage patties into freezer bags so they could be distributed to families in the community.

Despite chilly conditions, the students worked hard and filled 11 large boxes of food in just 30 minutes.  More importantly, they walked away with a deeper understanding of what it means to serve others.

“It was really worth the time and it felt good volunteering and helping others out.”  said Daniel

The Middle School students at the Food Bank!