The Webster definition of volunteering is as follows: “One who performs or gives services of his own free will. To give or offer of one’s own accord.” The following is Jennifer Bojarczyk and Abby Wujek’s definition of volunteering, which Jennifer shared during the year-end PCC breakfast in May.

“Volunteering means going through more shampoo and conditioner in one year because you have so much on your mind while in the shower you can’t remember if you washed your hair yet so you do it again. It means when your husband asks what’s for dinner, your answer is “Hot dogs, but by the way, in order to get that hot dog, you have to grill for three hours in the rain, make over 300 hot dogs and serve them all.” It means when you decide to throw a surprise parade for Camille DeMario, you have to have the biggest float and therefore enlist the help of your father who is an engineer, your mother who is a decorator, and your sister who just feels sorry for you.

Abby and I were honored during the final Board meeting of the year for our two years of service, but the biggest honor we receive is knowing we have made a small difference in our children’s world. Every day we roam the halls, whether as PCC chairs, room moms, ambassadors or chairs of some other committee. We have witnessed the joy and pride our children take in our steps to make The Grosse Pointe Academy a better place for them. Both Henry and Nicholas are at an age to understand what their mommies do for their school. Volunteering is not easy, not always fun, doesn’t pay and can be frustrating. However, it is the best job that the two of us have ever had. We know that we have had an impact on our children’s futures by being a part of their education through our volunteer service. Both of us have donated a lot of our time and money over the past six years and we will continue to do so because we believe in this beautiful school, its leadership, its character and its mission. I can only hope that our efforts will encourage others to step forward. It is not how big the job is but the effort that is put into the job that makes it worth it. We do not need rewards or thanks from others. The smiles and praise we get from our children is the only reward we will ever need.”