Volunteering in the office of Attention Homes first, Christina Gold then encouraged her husband, Andy Gold, to volunteer working with youth as a positive peer. Attention Homes gives residential treatment, counseling and safe shelter to at-risk youth, ages 12 - 18. Andy explained, "Attention Homes treats each individual case as unique."

Attention Homes' mission is to provide a group home, sober living and emergency care services to troubled teens. Andy confided, "I can identify with these youths because I worked hard to get out of a tough situation. I want to give back to kids. I know when I was that age it was tough to find people who talk to you rather than at you."

While Christina did filing, prepared mailings, updated address lists, researched potential sponsors online and wrapped numerous gifts, Andy spent time with the teens playing basketball, volleyball and softball.

Christina also volunteers with the youth knitting, baking, watching plays and hiking. Andy said, "Christina's focus is more arts and crafts and I'm more of the sporting type. We keep them from hitting pitfalls by being positive role models."

Volunteer Manager at Attention Homes, Sharon Routt said, "Christina and Andy have shared with the teens freely about how to properly "fight" and keep respect and they provide an example of a good marriage."

Andy's advise: "If you're Bill Gates or down on your luck, giving time to an organization is a valuable thing. Shake it up a little and make the world a fraction better!"

For information about volunteering with Attention Homes or other agencies, call the Volunteer Connection at 303-444-4904.