Page 36 - Priorities #67 2017 Spring

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LVS
Last Volunteer Standing
Perennial Volunteer Peg Phelps: Volunteer Recklessly
Peg Phelps’ illustrious nine year stint as one of our most dedicated parent volunteers start- ed when her oldest son James ’15 enrolled in 6th grade. As her youngest son Grant ’17 prepares to graduate from Priory in a few short weeks, she reflects on what sharing her time and talent with the community has meant to her.
At first, the thought of taking on leadership roles for some events seemed daunting, but Peg says “I am so glad I said yes! Over the years, I’ve been so blessed and incredibly rewarded by the connections and special bonds I have made with peer parents, students, faculty and staff, and especially the monks.” Whether volunteering for the 8th Grade Grad- uation Breakfast, as a Class Parent, a PPA Co-President, or a Gala and Fashion Show Chair, Peg has one main takeaway: “You will get out of it more than you can ever imagine.” The relationships she has made through her volunteerism have been lasting and memorable, and certainly something that she will look back fondly on as she transitions into life as a Priory Alumni Parent.
One thing that Peg feels it is important to remember is that volunteering comes in all sizes, and each individual must find the role that suits them best! There’s certainly no shortage of opportunities for parents to give back to Priory to sustain a community that continually benefits its current students, which leaves roles both big and small open for all who are able and willing to so generously give of themselves.
Peg’s Top Four Reasons to Volunteer (based on research):
1. It connects you to others and creates lasting relationships.
2. It’s good for the mind and body, increasing self-confidence, giving one a sense of
accomplishment and pride, and combating depression. You actually live longer!
3. It can advance your career, adding to your skillset and allowing you to learn.
4. It brings a new sense of fun and fulfillment to life and an escape from your normal
routine.
Peg has created a lasting legacy and has been a true inspiration to parents both current
and past, something that the Priory has been lucky enough to witness and count on these past nine years with her at the helm of countless events and committees. Peg says, “I have volunteered extensively at every school my boys have ever attended. But Priory is a special place, and it has been my honor and pleasure to serve this community. I will always be willing to help.”
Though Peg mentions feeling blessed by her volunteer experience here, it is really Pri- ory who should feel blessed for the immense amount of time and talent she has lent us all these years. Thank you, Peg!
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT