A Senior Service Day 'Well Spent'

By Hayley Furmaniuk, Emily Merfeld, Maggie Leccese and Meena Fernald, members of the Belmont High School Class of 2012.

When asked why the members of the Belmont High School Class of 2012 had chosen to participate in Senior Service Day last Wednesday, May 30, many provided us with the same answer. They figured a day with friends getting their hands dirty might be a fun and different way to spend what little time was left before graduation on Sunday, June 3.

The day began at breakfast in the BHS cafeteria with food generously donated by Costco, Iggy’s, Linda’s Donuts, Ohlin’s and Quebrada Bakeries, Russo’s, Shaw’s, Wilson’s, Stop and Shop, and Starbucks. After getting organized over donuts and orange juice, the senior volunteers set off towards their chosen service sites where they would remain until 2 p.m.

Whether they were weeding outside Bristol Lodge or knot-weeding at Community Farms of Waltham, the seniors didn’t let the muggy weather or repetitive tasks prevent them from having fun outdoors. Seniors also cleared trails, cleaned up and beautified at Habitat, Rock Meadow, the Woodland Garden, the Belmont Recreation Department and Belmont Acres, formerly Sergi Farm. 

“I’ve never farmed before and I really like it,” Lola Kang noted.  “I’m glad for the chance to get to do something different.” 

Senior Joanna Albert was likewise just as happy to help.

“After being a part of the Belmont school system for twelve years, completing a day of service is the least we can do to give back to the community that gave us so much,” she said.

In addition to spending some time outside, many seniors were also placed at the Belmont Food Pantry, the Public Library, Belmont Manor, Bristol Lodge and in classrooms at the elementary schools. 

And while these volunteers didn’t carry shovels or push wheelbarrows, it certainly didn’t mean there wasn’t any chance to get dirty. Brianna Normile, a regular volunteer in Ms. Irish’s second grade classroom remarked, “I taught the kids a science lesson today and they certainly taught me patience in return!” as she gestured to some overturned pots with spilled water and clay, no doubt the results of a classroom experiment.

All in all, the senior volunteers could certainly agree that it was a day well spent.

“We really just want world peace,” Raveena Kothare commented with a smile.  And what better way to start then by serving the community. With that positive attitude and willingness to work together, we’re certain the Class of 2012 will go far.