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Christians Ready Eager to Work, or CREW, are students at New Covenant Academy who are learning the importance of volunteering in their community. The 8th through 12th grade students are coordinated by Mindy Yoder, recently retired New Covenant Academy teacher. Mindy said she was asked to develop a program that would help students attain their service hours required for graduation. In addition, the program aims to make students aware of how enjoyable volunteering can be. “The affirmation of their efforts will help create confidence, and the purpose of their work will help them continue to move forward, even when the work might be tough” shared Mindy.

Any student in 8th through 12th grade who is in good standing is able to participate in the program. When Mindy becomes aware of a need or opportunity in the community she will start the process of recruiting student volunteers. Not every opportunity will need the same number of volunteers, so she will post a sign-up sheet in the school. So far students have volunteered at The History Center, My Neighbor’s Closet, Mansfield Food Pantry and for the borough Shade Tree Committee. They have also been able to help with yard clean-up around town.

Good things are happening because of the youth in our community and CREW is a great example of just that. It is a positive way for students to learn about the many benefits that volunteering provides, both for others and personally. Mindy stated that she hopes “this program may be the catalyst that sparks a lifetime of serving for the students that participate.”