by Bailee Rae

Guest Blogger, Summer of Service Participant

I’m Bailee Merrill, 14 years old, and last week I helped at the Summer of Service volunteer opportunity where we helped KSL prepare books and materials for their Read Today event! There were two things to help with–coloring cute cards that encouraged reading, or putting children’s books into bags for them! I honestly had a blast. Writing all those cards and reading cards made by other kids helped me realize how important reading really is! Kids drew comparisons between watching T.V. and reading a book. In my opinion, reading is much more fun! There are millions of fun books to choose from that are great reads! Most things on T.V. are filled with garbage and you get scared or embarrassed when one of your siblings or kids sees something bad. With books, it’s different. There’s such a variety that you can choose from, and I always enjoy books.

Another thing I realized was how happy the people that put it all together were! They really loved all the great stuff they’re doing for the kids that are getting these books, and I noticed how they all socialized and were happy about the work. Service projects make you feel good about yourself, because you’re doing something GREAT. More people should participate, because it was a lot of fun!

You can help at the next Summer of Service volunteer opportunity!
Afternoon in the Courtyard with United Way of Salt Lake –  Help United Way of Salt Lake advance their education, income, and health priorities with service projects, crafts, and music at the United way of Salt Lake office courtyard!
Thursday, July 14
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
UWSL Courtyard | 257 East 200 South

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