By Lisa Huard and Wendy David

Ask any volunteer and they’ll tell you they get much more than they give. It’s one of the best jobs you could ever have. You pick your interest, the time and days you want to work, and you get to do things you’ve waited a long time to do.

Along with the work, you develop binding relationships based on a common cause. It’s better than a paycheck.

Joy Rothschild was the epitome of volunteerism. She came into this world set to accomplish things. She left this world doing the same. She loved to work with teen youth, in particular, those that have additional challenges or struggles. Her legacy continues her passion after her passing.

Darren Fisher and Cree Whitton

Recently, Soroptimist International of Tahoe Sierra awarded some of our youth with scholarships to publicly recognize their heart and hard work. Two individuals received the Joy Rothschild Memorial Scholarship from a fund Rothschild established before she lost her battle with cancer in 2012.

Rothschild, a volunteer while in this world, she continues to give back even today. Her love of kids and recognizing the inner most talents and drive of all has provided two more young people with a step up to their next adventure – college. As Mt. Tallac students, both Cree Whitton and Darren Fisher received $1,000 toward continuing their education.

LTUSD counselor Amy Jackson said, “Cree can be defined as the ‘perfect’ Mt. Tallac student; bright, articulate, and alternative. She enjoys a smaller setting with flexible teaching styles. Cree comes from a single parent home. She and her mom have worked hard as a team through the years. Cree has learned to be resilient and to love those in her life and appreciate each moment as she lost her stepdad just a month prior to graduation and she dedicates her diploma to him.”

Jackson notes that Rothschild always had a soft spot for at risk young men. Her honest, yet loving style attracted them to seek her wisdom. She gained their trust and always had their best interest in mind, and they knew it.

Rothschild would have been very proud of this young man.

Jackson said, “Darrin is a bright kid who was falling through the cracks of traditional high school. Not in trouble with the law nor a behavior problem, it was easy for him to fade into the woodwork. At Mt. Tallac he could not hide and he began to shine. Joy would have loved his free spirit and calmness. He wants to continue his education and has an interest in water quality.”

The Joy Rothschild Memorial Scholarship, designated for Mt. Tallac students, is a restricted fund, always open to receiving additional funds through Soroptimist International of Tahoe Sierra.

Contact Lisa Huard at sitahoesierra@gmail.com for more information.