Here Comes the Summer

"Here comes the sun, Here comes the sun..." are lyrics from my favorite Beatles song. All year long, many of us, including me, just can't wait for summer, which is now finally here! We all get caught up with trips, camps, programs, swimming and other activities, but we can't let that get between us and bringing joy to our friends. For all we know, our visits to them, are like summertime to us.

Summer gives us a break from reality. It's a break from school, teachers, stress, and everything else in our daily routines. Our visits to our special friends provide that same ray of sunshine. As volunteers we hang with our special friends and for that hour and a half, they don't have to worry about things that impact their everyday lives. Remember that, when you're away for summer.

Another thing to take into consideration when making time for plans with your special friend is that you are their friend, always. You are not an educator, therapist, or a psychologist and they shouldn't feel that your relationship is based on the season. Many of those professionals come only during the school year and it's important to make sure your friend realizes that you're always their friend!

Summer should be a special time for you and your friend. Make the most of your special friend's summer by reminding them that you're always there for them!

In case this issue of the Volunteer Link doesn't have enough great ideas for you to make your special friend's summer amazing ;-) feel free to call me or email me and I'll be glad to brainstorm with you.

Thank you all for being the best volunteers, committed to making your special friend enjoy every minute of the year!

Samantha Megan Dines
President, FCI LEADERSHIP TEAM