Volunteer Voices

Fellowship Award; Laura Kassen, Westport, CT
Staples High School Graduate 2008

I began participating in Circle of Friends four years ago after a phone call from Frieda Hecht. She told me about this new organization she was starting, one to match student volunteers with children having special needs-- and I told her I would like to volunteer.

A few weeks later, I had my first visit with Becky. I think we were both nervous about meeting one another. I was 14 at the time, and Becky was 9. I’m a pretty reserved person, and I wasn’t sure what our common ground would be—but the first visit went all right. After a few more visits we grew more comfortable with each other’s company. I came to know what Becky liked to do, and what she didn’t like to do. I remember drawing pictures of flowers on a cold day in December with Becky and talking about how we wished it were warmer out—and then we could talk about all the things we wished for. Some activities we enjoyed doing were playing dress up, reading, dancing, singing and playing with Becky’s dolls. We especially liked to cook or bake together—to cooperate on a project and to get it done brought us both a lot of satisfaction.

Being able to become friends with Becky has been a very rewarding experience for both of us. After my weekly visits I would always reflect on our time together. We have a very special relationship and it is sometimes difficult to find words to describe what Circle of Friends and Becky have given me. Becky has taught me many things that not many people my age can relate to. I admire so many of her qualities and she is truly an amazing daughter, sister and friend.

I would like to congratulate the other volunteers for all their hard work, I know that sometimes it can be difficult, but in the end the experience is valuable beyond words.

I’d also like to thank Frieda for all her hard work. She is an inspiration and I think she also deserves to be recognized this evening.