Brightside looking for volunteers to make a difference for children

Date: 3/31/2009

By Lori Szepelak

Correspondent



WEST SPRINGFIELD -- Over the years, Gerri Amprimo of Belchertown has used her executive experience in retirement to bring the library at Brightside for Families and Children to a new level.

Amprimo is one of dozens of volunteers who each year help make the lives of children at Brightside a bit brighter. Amprimo and Phyllis Lewis, director of volunteers, recently talked about the need for more volunteers -- and are hoping that with a new year -- some area residents may have an hour or two a week to share with a child.

Lewis, a former teacher and principal, came out of retirement to serve in this role as part of the Commonwealth Corps volunteer program. The program was spearheaded by Gov. Deval Patrick to engage state residents of all ages and backgrounds in direct service to address the Commonwealth's most urgent needs.

"We at Brightside recognize that volunteers are a valuable, special resource," Lewis said.

Amprimo concurred.

"Volunteers can make the Brightside kids feel very special," Amprimo said. "Volunteers are like special visitors. I remember as a child I loved having visitors or company because it usually meant something special would result. Volunteers often are the visitors for the Brightside children."

Brightside is a comprehensive non-profit child welfare, mental health and family support center offering contemporary services for children, adolescents and their families. Founded in 1881 by the Sisters of Providence as an orphanage, Brightside's tradition of caring for children continues with a range of therapeutic and educational services.

Lewis said the need is great for volunteers at Brightside and there are ample ways for someone to get involved. Roles for volunteers range from playing games or providing academic help in math, reading or MCAS preparation, to assisting in programs that encourage spiritual development. Additionally, individuals are needed to help staff with food service preparation, as well as lending a hand with office work. Brightside also has opportunities for library volunteers, interpreters, and persons to teach small groups of children during a "special talent/hobby" session on Friday afternoons. A "Sunshine Ladies" team also meets as necessary to assist with special projects including the holiday Angel Campaign.

Amprimo said it was her "solid education" that gave her a wealth of opportunities in her personal life and career, and now wants to "pay it forward."

"Sometimes the kids are difficult and have a tough exterior but they have heart," she said. "They have touched my heart. They have had a great impact on me, maybe more than I can ever do for them. I really care what happens to them long-term. I have hope for them. I want them to have a good life."

Charles Ned Whitman, M.S., recently named vice president of services at Brightside, echoed those sentiments.

"Brightside has a long tradition of caring for children who have suffered extreme abuse and neglect at the hands of the adults in their lives and despite these obstacles, they are offered the resources and support needed to reach their fullest potential," he said. "Over the years, I have found that there is no more important work because it is so gratifying to see a child turn their life around."

Amprimo stresses the importance of education to all the children who visit the library, and encourages them to read all the books they can.

Knowing the importance of education as well as the joy that reading can bring, Grant Kuehl, 16, of Life Scout Troop 303 of Springfield, recently organized a book drive for Brightside as part of an Eagle Scout project. The drive garnered 9,693 new and used books and 126 videotapes, as well as a check for $175.

"These books were needed and welcomed since some of our units did not have books available where our kids live," Brenda McCormick, vice president of fund development, Sisters of Providence Health System, said. McCormick added that the majority of the books donated will be incorporated into the library s offerings.

Amprimo noted that so many of us have had people in our lives who have helped or guided us on our life s journey.

"This is just one way I know that I can possibly help repay them," Amprimo said, adding her biggest joy is bringing the library alive for the children. "Volunteering with our youth is an investment in our future."

Individuals interested in volunteering at Brightside are asked to contact Lewis at 827-4201 for more information.