Students Enriched through Volunteer Program

Throughout Nutley, many students have found fun – and fulfillment – in volunteering. Many events like the Parks and Recreation’s Princess Ball have been around for awhile, but a new program that's been brought into Nutley recently has made a big impact on the students involved, and also the volunteers. This program is the Bounce Out the Stigma basketball program, directed by former professional basketball player, Mike Simmel. 

The Bounce Out the Stigma program, which was every Monday throughout the month of March, from 5-6 PM, was established by Simmel in 2005. The program has had a huge impact on kids all across the US, especially in Nutley. Its background speaks volumes about the real mission of the program, as Simmel’s reason for making this program stems from the epilepsy he was diagnosed with at 2 years old, which has affected different aspects of his life, especially his basketball career. 

The program has made a positive impact on the kids involved, who learn new skills both on and off the court. “The drills that we use build confidence, and we focus on challenging youth to not just be better at basketball but also becoming better people,” said Simmel. While learning new skills, the program also helps to erase the stigma and empower the youth in doing what people say they can't. “The Bounce Out the Stigma Project’s mission over the last twenty years is, ‘To empower youth to believe they can, while erasing the stigma from those who say they can't!’” Simmel said. 

While the program itself and its actions make an impact on the kids involved, volunteers also make a huge impact on the kids. “The volunteers are making a difference in the kids' lives, and the kids are thriving learning skills, drills, and thrills that we teach,” said Simmel.

Sophomore Mia Garcia appreciates how important volunteers can be. “I also think it was pretty important for the volunteers to be there and willing to help because they were able to really help these kids learn new skills while also teaching themselves new skills,” said Garcia.

The volunteers keep coming though. Sophomore Antonella Franco also appreciates the importance of volunteering. “It's really important for me to volunteer for things like this because I’m aware it makes a difference, so i know I’m not doing something that doesn't matter or won't go on to make a real difference,” Franco said. Volunteering may be important to her personally, but it’s also important in general. “Volunteering in general is also really important for everyone, because it gives everyone an opportunity to make an impact on someone’s life, which I think is amazing,” said Franco. 

Simmel also said that the atmosphere with the volunteers inside the gym during Bounce Out the Stigma hours is beyond great. “There is so much positive energy in the gym that everyone is flying high, and we are one big team! It is something that is so beautiful to see and very motivating,” said Simmel.

With all the positive effects of volunteering, it’s hoped more people will come forward and give their time to events and programs that could use it efficiently, and that the love for volunteering will spread.