Volunteer Interview with Katie Hayward

Katie Hayward, a junior at Beaver Country Day High School, volunteers at Building Impact 3 times a week. Katie has been a ball of energy and helped us get some of our data entry and website projects off the ground.

This winter you sought out a volunteer opportunity after you couldn’t find one through your school. Why?

There is no better feeling than the one you get after helping others. I am so thankful for all the great opportunities and experiences I have been blessed with, it is my way of saying thank you for all I have been given.

Tell us about your community service background.

I have volunteered with groups at Cradles to Crayons and Birthday Wishes, and individually at a homeless shelter food program and read with the elderly, just to name a few. My favorite was volunteering with a 1st grade class at the Haley School. The experience gave me a true sense of the difference I could make in children’s lives by simply providing my time.

What is your favorite part about helping out at BI?

Definitely the people! They are all such individuals and provide me with different reasons to smile. I have never met another group so dedicated to improving other's lives. Not many teenagers can say they are excited to go do community service, but the BI staff makes me proud to say that. 

What are your future plans? Will your community service experience affect what kind of career you choose?

In the future, I intend to continue a close relationship with Building Impact and to continue volunteering wherever I go. My experiences have made me see how fortunate I am, and when I grow up I want to continue to make a difference. Community service helped me realize my true passion is working with children, because l feel I can make the most difference in their lives.

Thank you, Katie, for all your hard work! Your time has made a significant impact on our organization.