Sydney Archibald, 13, volunteers at the Whitefish Community Library. Daughter of Jim and Carrie Archibald, and big sister of Megan, she was born in Nevada but moved to Whitefish when she was one year old.

She enters the eighth grade this year with a 3.5 grade average and a predilection toward writing and languages. She has thought about her future, and although she recognizes that she may change her mind, her present inclination is to attend the University in Missoula in order to be near home and family.

She plays volleyball, skis and is in the junior golf program. She likes to cook and claims to do her best work on cupcakes and cookies. Her love of reading drew her to the library where she spends considerable time.

She became friends with the staff, who, noting her interest, suggested that she become a volunteer, which she did. She chose to assist the popular “Reading to Rover” program, in which children just learning to read practice their skills and gain confidence by taking turns reading to Sage, a friendly, non-judgmental, trained and certified dog.

She chose this program because she attended it when she was learning to read, and she “likes to see young kids being happy and having fun like I used to do.” She volunteers because in her words “It’s fun, I don’t know how to describe it, but it’s just nice seeing others enjoying themselves. I just like being able to help.”

The library staff speaks highly of her, using terms as “just a natural fit,” and “young and energetic,” or “literary minded,” and “she displays a natural aura of confidence.” As to living in Whitefish, Sydney says, “I really like it here. Everything is perfect, the temperature, the area and the people. It’s a really nice place to live.”

Sydney, it is people like you who make this a nice place to live, and it is comforting to know that persons like you will be the leaders of the future. The work you do with the youngsters will have a ripple effect which will enhance the lives of many, and we thank you.

— Jake Heckathorn