Debbie O'Donnell

AFFILIATE MEMBER • Volunteer  

Trinity Ecumenical Parish/SML Good Neighbors Board Member

Trinity Ecumenical Parish Website; SML Good Neighbors Website

debbieleeodonnell@gmail.com

I am on the Board for a local non-profit organization, SML Good Neighbors, that supports enrichment opportunities for elementary-aged students, and leadership opportunities for college-aged students. We partner with both Bedford and Franklin Co. Public schools to implement a summer camp for underserved students selected by school administrators to provide opportunities in social-emotional wellness and relationship building through engagement in themed camp activities, reteaching of math and literacy skills with classroom teachers, and reading enrichment through local volunteer "reading buddies". We hire college students who plan and implement themed lessons to motivate campers. We also provide after school programs to allow equitable opportunities for many of our students who can't otherwise access these kinds of activities.  In addition, I am involved in our church initiative at Trinity Ecumentical Parish in Moneta to develop a grant-funded health and wellness program focusing on spiritual, physical, social-emotional, and cognitive opportunities through relationship building for our congregation. We recognize the importance of holistic health through spiritual development, connection with others, movement, and education. In both aspects of my volunteer work, I am involved in grant writing and developing these programs. Connections through this organization will be most meaningful.