Bishop Montgomery High School student Lindsay O’Brien started volunteering for Beach Cities Health District (BCHD) to fulfill a National Honor Society Scholarship requirement.  However, a year later, Lindsay has grown to love her volunteer role.

The National Honor Society Scholarship is a well-established student recognition program, created to encourage students to make a difference in their schools and communities. Part of the scholarship requires each student to complete 50 hours of volunteer service each year and Lindsay decided to volunteer at AdventurePlex, BCHD’s healthy kids play facility in Manhattan Beach.

Every Sunday she works three hours with the children at the indoor playground to help them develop healthy habits through a variety of fun, energetic activities. “My support differs each week. Sometimes I may help to set up some activity, at other times I will be playing with the kids. Whatever I am asked to do, I love it all and really enjoy myself. The children can be so funny, I always have a good time.”

Despite Lindsay saying that the three-hour shift each week seems to pass very quickly, it demands a lot of energy. Thankfully, aside from her schoolwork and AdventurePlex commitment, Lindsay manages to stay fit by finding time for her hobbies which include golf and soccer.

Jasmine Morales, Supervisor of Events and Operations at AdventurePlex said “Lindsay has been a true asset, especially with the parties. She helps prepare the materials, decorate the room, blow up the balloons and supervises the play area. She is so energetic, friendly and approachable that all the children love her; she makes them feel comfortable and happy and ensures they enjoy their time with us.”