Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/14049
LONGBEACHMAGAZINE.COM 75 "Ultimately, it's win-win," he added. Many of his students continue their volunteer commitments well beyond the required 25 hours and many express life-changing epiphanies as a result of their experiences. He shared how one student in his political science class, who was also on the LBCC basketball team, organized a basketball clinic for the children at Bethune. After his volunteer time was completed, the student confessed that he had finally found his career path and was going to become an elementary school teacher. Savoie acknowledges that he too would not be where he is today without the help of individuals who touched his life. "I feel I'm standing on the shoulders of others. As a person and an educator, I am a unique combination of all those wonderful, informal mentoring experiences that I have had over time," said Savoie. About 150-175 students per year participate in the service-learning component of his class. As part of his course requirement, Savoie has students keep a reflective journal and compose a reaction paper. Savoie recalled how a student wrote in her journal that she had been very reluctant to choose the service project option in his course because she had been a resident of Carmelitos as a child and teen. Despite her vow never to return, something moved her to volunteer at Carmelitos. Her experience working with the children of Carmelitos transformed her thinking. She was determined to commit her personal and professional life to serving these residents, and she realized that this truly was her community and her people. "I still tear-up every time I think about the amazing, transformative experience that she had through her service!" exclaimed Savoie. As an educator Savoie has mentored thousands of young people, yet it is those that he mentors that ultimately teach him. "My students inspire me everyday," said Savoie. "They are my heroes." n For more information on BLAST visit lbblast.org. 800.827.2946 ■ www.FantasySpringsResort.com In The Palm Springs Valley Valid through Sept. 30, 2010. Blackout dates may apply. Join us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest news, promotions, entertainment updates and special contests. Eagle Falls Golf Course Play & Stay $ 119 (Mon-Thurs) DELUXE ROOM FOR 2 $20 FREE PLAY ■ GOLF FOR 1 (ASK for OFFER EFGOLFPKG) $ 169 (Fri-Sun & Holidays) DELUXE ROOM FOR 2 $20 FREE PLAY ■ GOLF FOR 1 (ASK for OFFER EFGOLFPKG1) 250-ROOM HOTEL ■ SIX FABULOUS RESTAURANTS ROCK YARD - LIVE MUSIC ■ VEGAS-STYLE GAMING 18-HOLE CHAMPIONSHIP COURSE - CLIVE CLARK DESIGNED WORLD-CLASS ENTERTAINMENT ■ 12TH FLOOR - JAZZ & WINE BAR FANT-39990 LBeach Live HalfPg_Layout 1 7/22/10 3:06 PM Page 1 "My students inspire me everyday. They are my heroes." —Paul Savoie