The Woman's Club of Medford Alice Mietz Scholarship

Why is community service important in today's society and

how does it impact the volunteer and the recipient? Please tell

us about a community service activity that you have participated

in that has meant the most to you and why.

Community Service is incredibly important in today’s

society. There are so many people in need, and the work of one

person can make a lasting difference in the life of another. Not

only that, but volunteering can give one a sense of fulfillment and purpose.

Since I was in Kindergarten I have been in Girl Scouts, in

which I have done many community service projects. One of the

most meaningful to me of all of the projects I have pursued was

one I did in sixth grade: I decided to build a 'Little Free

Library' in my community as my Girl Scout Bronze Award project.

I had seen one while on a road trip with my family, and had

thought it was such a good idea. Since there is no public

library within Medford Lakes, I thought, 'wouldn't it be great

to create something that gives people access to free books

within walking distance of their house?' So, I discussed my idea

with a couple of other girls in my troop and we got to work.

We first got permission from the town council, and we then

built the 'Little Library', deciding to paint it a forest green

to mirror the foliage of our community. After building the

library we collected books from our families, friends, and

community. Finally, it was time to install the library in Leon

E. Todd Memorial Park and fill it with the books. In the next

few months after its completion, I began to see more and more

patrons of our 'Little Library'. When passing by the park I

often saw parents with their children, picking out a book to

read. This was so special for me, and made me feel that what I

had done had actually made a difference in my community, and in

people's lives. Then, I began to see more “Little Libraries” pop

up around my community, built by people who had been inspired by

mine. This made me feel so proud. My 'Little Library', as well

as all of the others in my town, still stand today, and I hope

that they will bring people joy for years to come.