Feb. 25 marks the annual ShamrAuction, the single largest fundraiser for our school. Last year’s event raised $682,000. The money supports programs from the arts to athletics to tuition assistance.

However, students can benefit from the event before any money is raised.

Besides sleeping in on the day off, we can volunteer. Mrs. Mary Myers, assistant director of events and volunteer coordinator, said between 250 and 300 adult and student volunteers help with the event.

Senior Rayna Onate volunteered her sophomore year with a friend. This year, she will receive credit for the servant leadership program. However, Onate is gaining more than requirements for a program, she said. The last time she volunteered, she met staff and parents whom she had not met previously.

Volunteering builds a sense of community, with everyone helping each other for the common mission of our school, Myers said. It helps students become more involved and meet parents, alumni and guests. The experience strengthens the famous family-like environment of our school.

Students also learn the value of hard work. Our students are encouraged to perform service in different agencies around the metro area. By providing the opportunity to volunteer for ShamrAuction, we have more experiences which help us grow in mind and spirit.

Beyond spiritual growth, volunteering helps students improve their persuasion skills, Onate said. Whether volunteers are checking in guests or selling tickets, their goal is to encourage guests to donate money toward the cause. In order to present a convincing case, students dress nicely and act professionally. This is not only a good representation of our school, but begins an individual habit of respect and confidence.

The presence of professional student volunteers is able to increase the benefits of the fundraiser for the school. Potential donors may not be as empathetic towards adults, especially when asking for money donations that benefit a high school. However, students from that school sharing and explaining their personal stories are much more compelling. The guests are more likely to believe that their money is going toward a good cause, Onate said.

The guests themselves have some stories to share as well, Onate said. After serving alumni, parents and students’ family members, one begins to realize what a large impact our school has had on each individual. It creates a better appreciation for the fortune we have to attend such an institution.

In order to give back, students should be sure to volunteer.

The event still needs help assembling silverware packets, writing thank you notes, putting together sponsor gifts and setting up on Feb. 23 and Feb. 24. It’s simple to sign up.