Summer Picnic at Lyons Veterans Hospital By Georgia Kinsley Not knowing what to expect, I went into the day with an open mind and an intrigued curiosity. As I drove up to the picnic area, the beautiful weather and presence of so many other caring volunteers helped me realize that this day was going to be very successful. Despite some tearing up during the cutting of the onions, the food prep went very well and we were ready to get cooking! As the veterans started pouring in, we distributed all sorts of delicious food ranging from chili to fresh Jersey peaches. The veterans all had a smile on their face, and it was evident from the way they came back for seconds and thirds that they really enjoyed the food! Throughout the picnic, I also had the pleasure of getting to know some incredible volunteers of all ages whose kind spirits and giving personalities truly inspired me. As the picnic was winding down, I got the chance to talk to an older woman in a wheelchair who was one of the only veterans left. After a little bit of small talk, she looked me in the eye and said “Thank you so much, it was so nice of you all to do this.” Just getting the chance to give back to those who fought to keep our freedom was a reward in itself, but the fact that they were so grateful of our actions made me feel like I was really doing something beneficial within my community. This also made me realize that if more people took a little bit of time out of their day to do something kind for others, many more deserving people would benefit. Whether it’s volunteering for an esteemed organization such as the Red Cross, or simply going out of your way to help out another human being, we can all do our part to make a positive impact in the lives of others. August, 2010 Georgia Kinsley is a public relations intern with the American Red Cross of Central New Jersey. Georgia resides in Somerset, New Jersey and is entering her sophomore year at Boston University.