ABOVE: Our Lady of Good Counsel Confirmation youth serving lunch to the homeless on the streets in Endicott.
By Dc. Gary DiLallo, Contributing Writer
Photos by Kathy Hamilton
Our Lady of Good Counsel’s (OLGC) youth have a big a heart for sharing the life and love of Christ in both word and deed in the Southern Tier area and around the world. That’s according to Kathy Hamilton, director of Faith Formation and junior high youth minister. Most importantly, she adds that they learn about the joy of giving.
The youth volunteer program at the Endicott parish offers meaningful, hands-on experiences for families and individuals. The mission is to assist those in need while seeking long-term solutions. Hamilton says “the youth in our program are very generous with their time and talents. Many times, they volunteer into their high school years and beyond.”
With this in mind, locally and inter-denominationally, the youth are involved with Broome Developmental Center, Vestal Special Olympics, Central Methodist Church, Endicott’s Shepherd’s Supper take-out dinner and Dorothy’s Weekly Soup Kitchen at OLGC. At Park Terrace Community United Methodist Church in Apalachin, the youth volunteer at the food pantry along with serving lunch on the streets to the homeless and those in need at St. Veronica’s Table and Mother Teresa’s Cupboard in Endicott.
Fund Raising Activities for the Youth Programs include a Christmas Poinsettia and Wreath Sale, Bake Sale and can and bottle collection at Roma’s in Endicott.
Diane Donahue, a co-volunteer who works with the youth through the Heifer International Foundation, said the goal is to shorten food pantry lines worldwide by giving our neighbors access to resources that can help them achieve greater independence. “These amazing young kids are running the whole show. Their energy propels it.”
During the past 11 years, over $20,000 has been raised for Heifer International, which has been used to donate more than 240 farm animals.
Diane said the youth learn about animal husbandry and how this benefits the poor. They also learn about different cultures, that color or race isn’t a factor in giving, that they can make a difference, especially together.
The youth believe they can end hunger for good, but they also believe they can’t do it alone. With the help of parishioners, they believe they can reach millions more people, and provide a lasting change. Every $1 donation to Heifer International provides three meals to hungry kids, seniors and families.
Anyone can make a difference by making monetary gifts, providing food donations and volunteering. For more information regarding any of these opportunities, please contact Kathy at [email protected].
