Making a positive impact on the future

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. David Tart
  • 47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Over the last several months almost 100 people from Laughlin volunteered at various science fairs in the local community resulting in 235 hours of volunteer service; with the capstone being the Del Rio District Science Fair held at the Del Rio Civic Center Feb. 7.

The San Felipe Del Rio Consolidated Independent School District, district science fair had participants from all the elementary schools in the district and included 148 science projects and a little under 200 children. Over half of the judges for the science fair were members of Team XL.

"We really appreciate the support the members of Laughlin provide for events like this, without them we couldn't do what we do," said Patty Brown, San Felipe Del Rio CISD senior curriculum coordinator. "Outside of being judges for the events they are role-models for the children to look up to."

"I am having a great time here, and love science fairs," said 2nd Lt. William Tobergte, 47th Student Squadron. "You get an opportunity to impact the children and their future in a positive way."

Tobergte explained that this was his third science fair and he hopes to continue to participate in them. He is always impressed with the amount of work that the children do and enjoys the opportunity to participate in their learning experience.

"Don't be afraid to put yourself out there and help out with events like this," said Tobergte. "We have a great tie with the community and we need to maintain that relationship the best we can.

Senior Airman Chloe Ullah, 47th Medical Group public health technician, echoed Tobergte's sentiments. "Laughlin has a big impact on the community and we make sure we do a thorough job when we help out. It provides a big moral boost for us and the community."

"It is really awesome and interesting to see what the children have done and what they know about their projects, and provide positive feedback for the children," said Ullah. "We are trying to be a positive example for the children when we participate in events like this."

Ullah explained that she has also helped out in multiple science fairs, but also mentors a fourth grader. She explained that volunteers from Laughlin do more than just judge the science fairs. They mentor and tutor children on a one on one basis in the schools along with many other volunteer efforts.

"The members of Laughlin do a lot more than just volunteer at the science fair, they are always involved with helping the community," said Brown. "Laughlin members are mentoring and tutoring children on individual campuses across the school district, being a positive influence on their lives."