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ST. HELEN'S, NISKAYUNA

Student spread words through book drive

Though only in the third grade, Caroline McGraw stands out in the world of volunteering and good works.

Caroline, a student at St. Helen's School in Niskayuna, was honored recently by the YWCA of Schenectady with its Outstanding Volunteer of the Year award.

An avid reader, Caroline was cleaning off her bookshelf and decided that other children might be interested in the books she had outgrown. She also thought her peers might have books they no longer needed.

Caroline often swims at the YWCA and had befriended children in the agency's domestic violence program. She knew they didn't have much of their own and might appreciate books.

"I think it's important to have books to learn how to read," Caroline said, "and to read to have fun."

Caroline asked her teacher and principal if she could collect books at St. Helen's. During Lent, she filled several large boxes of books from other students. The books were donated to the YWCA.

Rowie Taylor, executive director of the YWCA, said the children served by the agency enjoyed the books. "They were thrilled," Ms. Taylor said. "They were most thrilled that the books came from other children."

Ms. Taylor said Caroline is among the youngest people ever recognized by the local YWCA for volunteer efforts.

"If we really believe that children are our future, we need to empower our children," Ms. Taylor said. "Caroline has a real ownership in this community. She made a difference."

Ms. Taylor said that Caroline has become comfortable at the YWCA. While Caroline uses the YWCA pool, she also learned from other children there about services offered by the agency.

"She gets it that not every child is lucky enough to have their own books," Ms. Taylor said. "She is a terrific young woman."

Caroline said she was surprised to be recognized. She received a plaque and was honored at a dinner at the Glen Sanders Mansion.

"The plaque is hanging up in my room," she said.

Caroline would encourage other children to volunteer. "It's a great experience," she said. "Sometimes you get an award but most of the time you don't, but it's still good to help others." 

Caroline plans to stay involved in other service projects in the future through Girl Scouts and her school.

When she's not helping others, Caroline swims on the Albany Starfish swim team and, sure enough, enjoys books: "I like to read Nancy Drew, American Girl, and Ivy and Bean books."

(06/11/09) [[In-content Ad]]

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