Barbara Benedetti

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"I was looking for something to do after I retired from Turley Publications, where I had been the head bookkeeper. Nancy Bauer, the library director, told me that Top Floor Learning (Literacy Volunteers of Quaboag Valley as it was known at the time) was looking for volunteers. I joined in 1998. I know how important it is to read and write and although I did not want to tutor, I thought I could be of help in the office. I began by answering phones, handling the mailboxes, photocopying and general office tasks. I began to help Gladys Sullivan with the May Basket Raffle and got involved with the mailing. I also learned how to do the income/expense sheets for the financial manager. Now I am solely responsible for the May Basket, which is a very big job - I don't delegate easily. By the time spring comes round again, I have forgotten how big the job was last year and I'm ready to start again. I enjoy working here. I like to see how the students progress and how chatty they become as time passes. I think this program is very important to the community - you can see that in the response to the classes. It's very well-organized and it's a friendly, welcoming atmosphere to work in. It's a good place to volunteer."

With style and flair, Barbara manages the major fundraiser of the year - the May Basket Raffle. She is also an indispensable part of the office function at Top Floor Learning. In addition, Barbara volunteers at the Palmer Public Library and the Library Loft.