National Volunteer Week honors 'hidden heroes'

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Elaine Aviles
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey (AFPN) --  For many people, the term “Girl Scouts” either conjures up memories of Brownie uniforms and summertime campouts or the desperate hunt for cookie stands when Thin Mint cravings strike.

For people like Tech. Sgt. Donna Pena, the Girl Scouts carries a deeper meaning -- the chance to make a difference.

“I like being part of something bigger than myself,” said Sergeant Pena, 39th Air Base Wing assistant law office manager and a Girl Scout volunteer. “When I see the girls smiling at a Girl Scout event or after a big accomplishment, I know I’ve done something good, and that makes me happy.”

Sergeant Pena will be honored here during National Volunteer Week, a time set aside each year to salute America’s “hidden heroes.” This year’s volunteer week is April 18 to 24.

“It’s a time to thank people who wouldn’t normally receive any recognition,” said Christina Politte, a 39th Mission Support Squadron family life specialist. “Without volunteers, a lot of our base functions wouldn’t exist, especially our youth and chapel services.”

But recognition does not have to be limited to one week a year, she said. Although there is a steady stream of people willing to lend a hand, Ms. Politte said there is always room for more.

“You don’t have to be a troop leader or sports coach to be called a volunteer,” Ms. Politte said. “A lot of people volunteer and don’t even realize it. How many of us have helped wrap gifts or set up chairs at a holiday party? Anything you do that’s above and beyond your normal job is a volunteer effort.”

The effort is worth it, Sergeant Pena said.

“When my daughter was 7, we attended our first Girl Scout meeting together,” she said. “She asked me to be a leader, and my heart just swelled. As soon as I was able, I became one and was hooked for life.

“I hope, by being a volunteer for the Girl Scouts or some other event, I’m setting a good example for my children,” she said. “It feels wonderful to know that I can make a difference in someone’s life by just dedicating a few hours of my time.” (Courtesy of U.S. Air Forces in Europe News Service)