Five years ago, as a freshman at CU, Emily McCarthy attended a volunteer fair to find an interesting opportunity to satisfy her community-service requirement. She decided to offer a few hours a week to Attention Homes, a shelter for struggling, at-risk youth between the ages of 13 and 18. Since that time she has spent seven hours a week (September-May) working in any needed capacity at Boulder's youth facility, Broadway House.

Today, as a second-year law student, she is still committed to this service.
McCarthy often lends a hand cleaning and cooking in order to free up the staff to deal with the needs of the clients. At other times, she may devote some individual attention to some of the residents: sharing card games, puzzles, video games, or playing basketball.

McCarthy said, "It's nice to be a part of something off-campus, nice to go in and talk to the residents and staff, as well. I feel optimism in terms of seeing how struggling individuals can make positive decisions for themselves. The time at Broadway House for me is being part of a community-giving time and help, and receiving companionship and fun."

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