Celebrating Our Volunteers

National Volunteer Week – April 16-22 Together Again: Celebrating Our Volunteer Community

At the Arlington Heights Memorial Library, we have many reasons to celebrate volunteerism. In 2022, 458 volunteers contributed more than 19,000 hours of service, up from the previous year, as many volunteers returned to the library. Library volunteers represent many ages, with 250+ active adult volunteers and more than 200 teens and tweens volunteering at the library in 2022. Some 100 teens and tweens gave their time during summer break and completed more than 1,000 hours of service assisting with things like summer reading and other community outreach.

Impact like this inspired the theme for this year’s celebration: Together Again: Celebrating Our Volunteer Community.

“Many volunteers tell us that the library has enriched their lives, and they want to give back to the place that means so much to them,” said Volunteer Coordinator Jennifer Begich. “Whether they volunteer each week or once in a while, their time and talent complement the work of staff and allows the library to connect with and expand its service to the community.”

Volunteer with a Heart of Gold

“They are citizens who, often without public notice, contribute their time and talent to better the world around them…” – 25th Annual Arlington Heights Hearts of Gold Award

Recently, the Village of Arlington Heights Special Events Commission presented Paul Kochendorfer, a long-serving library volunteer, with the Young at Heart Heart of Gold Award. The Young at Heart Award honors a senior in Arlington Heights who continues to actively and enthusiastically contribute to the community.

Kochendorfer meets the criteria…and then some. At 87, he actively volunteers at the Senior Center, teaching other seniors to use computers and technology—a role he has embraced since 1998, contributing more than 4,300 hours in sharing his skills and knowledge.

“I’ve taught thousands of hours to thousands of seniors and anytime I can share my knowledge with other people, I’m willing to do it,” said Kochendorfer. “Showing people how they can improve their lives, maybe get a job or make their life easier by using technology, is gratifying and gives me big pleasure.”

A Heart of Gold Award is one of the highest honors that a resident of Arlington Heights can receive in recognition of their community service. Congratulations Paul, and thank you for all that you do.

FRIENDS & FOUNDATION

Support the library.

Adult Sale: Hendrickson Room

Children’s Sale: Cardinal Room

Friday, April 28, 6–8 p.m.

Members Night

Membership required