September 4, 2003
Camilla- Mitchell County is home to Albany State University student Samantha Lineback.
So when she set out to do community service, she wanted it to be in the area she cares about most.
"There's a lot of stuff that's needed here," Lineback said. "That's why I want to come back and teach in Camilla or in Pelham."
What she did not know, was that she could earn money for school while working with members of the Boys and Girls Club in Mitchell County.
"Any little money that can help out is great," she said.
The Boys and Girls Club partners with AmeriCorps for a program called Club Service. This is the first year for the program in Mitchell County.
"This gives them an opportunity, not only to give back to the community, but also to receive a stipend during the first or second year of the program which would go toward their education," said Rodney Close, executive director of the clubs in Mitchell County.
Samantha will eventually get paid depending on the amount of service hours she works. She can use that money for undergraduate or graduate studies, and even to pay back student loans.
While more money is always helpful to a college student, club leaders say what Samantha will take home each day is worth much more.
"It makes them feel good about themselves," Close said. "It gives them a sense of belonging, a sense of usefulness, a sense of competence and a sense to influence others."
And it will give these children someone to look up to.
"Just to come here and volunteer, I know that one day I'll make a difference," Lineback said.
That's exactly what she's banking on.
posted at 10:05 p.m. by brannon.stewart@walb.com
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