Volunteer Testimonials
“I’ve often been asked what it was that led me to volunteer my time with Children’s Friend. Well, that answer is pretty easy…it was a friend and co-worker that led me to serve them. But the real question should have been – what is it about Children’s Friend that keeps me coming back to dedicate my time and energy to this wonderful organization?
“There are so many worthy causes and organizations performing countless number of good deeds for the needy and underprivileged. However, It was easy for me to decide on Children’s Friend. My answer is twofold. First, their mission is simple and straight from the heart “to improve the lives of children and those who love them”. It’s short and direct, but speaks volumes to their caring nature and feelings of responsibility to help those in need. Secondly, it’s the people and staff who work for and volunteer with them that really sheds the light on the true meaning and value they bring to the community.
“The staff and volunteers at Children’s Friend are more like a close knit family than a charity organization. The way that they work together and how they display their tireless efforts to accomplish their goals and objectives is simply inspiring. Their dedication and devotion, especially from leadership and Board members is contagious, and it is impossible to not get caught up in their efforts to serve. I look forward to working with them for many more years and I plan to engage my own children and family to make the Children’s Friend experience my own ‘Family Affair’.
- Byron Deane, Public Sector Partners, Inc.
“Volunteering with Children’s Friend has had a tremendous impact on my life. My affiliation has been memorable and extremely gratifying. Whatever the task – from paper work to fundraising or scooping ice cream at the Big Dipper, I guarantee you will come away knowing you are making a difference. I enjoy volunteering at Children’s Friend because of all the support and caring the agency gives to help children, adults, families and communities. The dedication and hard work of the staff is truly amazing. I would urge anyone who has a few hours to spare to become a volunteer. It is an incredibly rewarding experience”.
- Mary Schilling, Protector Group
“Any time you combine families, entertainment, great weather, and ice cream, it’s always a good day. That’s how it was when I worked at the Big Dipper. As a volunteer, I understood that help was vital to Children’s Friend and to the festival. Children’s Friend has been around for a very long time, and because of its dedication to the community, I wanted to volunteer and bring others with me.”
-Gordon Wong, Summer Intern, United Way of Central Massachusetts
“After 21 years of volunteering at the Big Dipper, I never cease to enjoy being part of an event at which families have a wonderful time at a great site – beautiful Elm Park. We are all fortunate to have sponsors, vendors, staff and volunteers all working together to help Children’s Friend help kids and families (and it’s fun)!”
-Elizabeth Riza, Worcester – Long-time friend and volunteer at Children’s Friend
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South High students love to volunteer for Children’s Friends and their community events. For the past few years, South High students have volunteered for the Big Dipper, helping with scooping ice cream, face painting and working as runners to help in anyway needed. Participating in Children’s friends community events like the Big Dipper has resulted in increased passion for civic engagement and has firmly planted the seeds of leadership in our students. The staff of Children’s Friends are positive role models for South High students and treat our students with a warm welcome and appreciation.
- Maureen Binienda, South High Principal, Worcester, MA














