“Hello, my name is Natalie Urban. I am a member of the graduating class of 2018 at Fairport Harding High. I was born and raised on the shores of Lake Erie. The Spirit of America Foundation gave me opportunities to learn how to manage many different boats, as you have experienced the past three weeks. It has also given me the chance to volunteered with the paddling groups class with many other boating programs through Lake Metroparks. Volunteering has changed my life for the better. Many of you might be thinking why it is important to volunteer, that is a waste of my time, I could be home hanging out with friends, playing video games, or sleeping in. I know because I was in that same boat. There were many days where I didn’t want to get up and head to the beach especially on the cold, wind, 60-degree days but I did it anyway, and it was worth it. I made so many new friends and created new memories that will last forever. Volunteering for Lake Metroparks has given me the opportunity to work the concession stand and gate for a year and a half. Then I decided to become a lifeguard. To graduate from high school, I was required to volunteer a total of 100hrs. From S.O.A and LM boating programs, I completed all my hours during my Freshman year of summer. But I did not stop there; I decided to continue volunteering. I was aware that an award would be given to the senior with the most volunteer hours and that they would receive a donation to any non-profit organization of their choices. I promised the foundation and a few other people at Lake Metro parks that if I won that award, I would donate it to Spirit of America. So, here I am 4 years later to present the Spirit of America Foundation with a $100 donation to help keep this program going. I want to thank you for giving me the chance to grow as a person. And S.O.A graduates, if I can give you one piece of advice. It would never be never give up on your dreams or opportunities you may be offered. You may never know where they could lead too or what you can discover about yourself. I hope you all have enjoyed the last 3 weeks and I hope to see everyone back next summer as volunteers.”

Natalie U.Spirit of America volunteer