My name is Taylor, and I am a lifelong Rockford resident. I work for the Illinois Department of Human Services and the Rockford Park District. I am also a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Upsilon Chi Zeta Graduate Chapter here in Rockford.
In early 2020, I researched opportunities to volunteer. When I learned about RHK on their website, I thought it was a place I would enjoy serving, and I was so right! I have always loved working with and teaching children, so it was easy to say "yes!"
RHK asked if I would volunteer as a "floater" to assist where needed with the 3rd-6th graders. I agreed, and I'm so happy I did! Since then, I have helped with each elementary age group, and led the different stations, as needed.
In my first year at RHK, I spent lots of time with the 3rd and 4th-grade girls. I developed relationships with most of the girls, but there was a stronger bond with one particular young lady. She was shy.
Over the next year, we would often sit next to each other in silence or talk very little during dinner and chapel. One evening, she seemed to be having a rough time, and I could tell she was upset or sad about something. During chapel, she came and sat by me, laid her head on my shoulder, and started to cry. After chapel, I asked her if she wanted to talk, and she agreed. We sat and talked together for a bit. Once she felt better, we hugged, and she went to class. That night, my heart was so full because I knew she trusted me enough to comfort her in her time of need.
What keeps me coming back to RHK? It is seeing the children and hearing "Hey, Ms. Taylor!" followed by a big hug. If you're considering volunteering at RHK, stop thinking and do it! Although it can be challenging at times, the joy you receive from watching the children grow in their faith and personal lives is amazing to witness.
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