Local middle schoolers traded their textbooks for cleaning supplies on Feb. 22 to revitalize the Canyon Country Jo Anne Darcy Library in exchange for Junior NHS community service hours. The event was organized by Santa Clarita Volunteer Engagement Coordinator Gabby Vera and Teen Services Librarian Madelyn Blaha. Vera explained the process for organizing this event: “I work with library staff who identify the need for the local libraries to have some extra help cleaning up.” Vera also clarified that the Tween Clean-up event was made specifically for middle schoolers who needed service hours and volunteering opportunities.
Canyon Country Jo Anne Darcy Library Librarian Samantha Steele believed early volunteering teaches valuable life lessons, “It is important to do something without expecting something in return,” Steele added, “I think it’s important in everyday life.” According to Steele, volunteering events teach beyond the discipline of hard work and proactivity. It is about inspiring the younger generation to become change-makers in their community.
Teen Services Librarian Madelyn Blaha agreed with Steele’s insight: “This event gives teens the ability to have autonomy over their leadership,” Blaha explained. “It teaches them the value of giving back to their community and the value of altruism. The library will greatly benefit from having this cleaning event.” The librarians’ goal of a clean environment for study was reflected in the students’ attitudes towards the event, with many appreciating the chance to help their community.
Eighth grader Sanjana Satish, who wiped off tables and washed down chairs at the event, said volunteering at the library influenced her to volunteer more in the future because “it could benefit the community a lot. [Volunteering] could help people and show respect for them.” The event aims to help impressionable tweens become active community members, and Sanjana’s experience reflects that goal in action.
Similarly, seventh-grader Arjun Mehta spent his morning scrubbing chairs, wiping off desks and tables, and dusting down bookshelves. “Some students hear the word volunteering and think it’s only about getting hours done, but events like this show that it can actually have a real impact,” said Arjun. “It felt good knowing that even simple jobs like dusting and wiping surfaces were helping create a cleaner environment.”
Wildcats, if you are looking to make an impact, check for upcoming opportunities listed on the Santa Clarita Volunteers website.
