Volunteer

Volunteer

Larry showed up at the door of Kiddie Kare, a preschool near his home, at 8:30 AM. Dressed in a fine Italian suite, replete with his favorite power tie (red with pink highlights in an abstract pattern not unlike octopus or jellyfish tentacles), he realized that he had made his first mistake. All of the staff members were fully-occupied, shuttling herds of little darlings, some laughing, and some crying, some half-asleep, to their respective classrooms. Larry smiled at the range of expressions on their little faces.

Patty, a thirty something brunette, identifiable by the oversized star pinned to her blouse with her name printed on it, thought she saw a grandfather, potentially looking for childcare for a grandchild. She said “Can I help you, sir?”

“I’d like to volunteer here at your school.” Patty asked “Do you have any experience in childcare?” Larry thought he’d try honesty, an approach he hadn’t overused in his business life. “Well, no. But I have a strong desire to learn.” Patty asked “What brings you to this business?” Larry replied “Well, I’ve been very successful in business, have a nice (perhaps giant, even) home in the hills, and plenty of money, but find myself in search of human connection, especially with young people.”

“Well, please fill out this application, and I’ll make sure our Site Manager gets it.” Larry did as instructed, and handed the completed application, short on qualifications, but long on flexibility and motivation back to Patty on his way out.

“Thanks, sir,” Patty said as he walked out the door. She was relieved to see him go. Getting into his Mercedes, Larry thought of the family he should have had as Patty called the local police.