Long-term IVC Service Corps member
Ron Nix shares this story of volunteer service at
Cotting School in Lexington during this pandemic year:
"This year was initially framed by the pandemic in several ways. First, it meant that we could no longer go out to work sites and therefore I was not going to be a job coach. At first I was saddened and frustrated, because I truly enjoyed the one on one time with students at work locations. The conversations we would have allowed me to gain more insight into them as true people of God.
"Second, by not going to work sites, my work was now going to be all done remotely via Zoom, so I did not even need to leave home, which was truly frustrating. Every day for the first few months was the same, which was not the best way to connect with the students. Finally, after our February school vacation week, I was permitted to return to the school and be with the students in person. This provided some new insights and experiences.
"One of the students, whom I had never worked with in my previous years at the school, and who is non-verbal and in a wheelchair at all times, gave me my most cherished moment of the year. Her name is Lizzie and when I first started working with her I was very frustrated, as I did not know if she was understanding me and I needed to work with her on a weekly basis, so I needed to figure out a way to communicate.
"With some guidance from the classroom teacher I was able to learn some techniques for communication. This helped me make a breakthrough with her, as after almost eight weeks of working with her, she was finally able to say 'Hello, Mr. Nix!' through her speech device and answer some basic questions. When this day came, I was nearly in tears of joy, as I was finally able to connect with this truly remarkable person. Lizzie continues to be one of my favorite students and I look forward to the times I get to work with her."