高中三年级英语(人教版)全一册 Unit 15 Reading 1

　　YOUNG VOLUNTEERS

　　On the annual International Volunteers Day, the world acknowledges the work of millions of people who give their time to help others. Many of those who do voluntary work are young people, and the numbers are growing. Around 24,000 Young Volunteers Community Service Stations in China are welcoming increasing numbers of Chinese youth who want to make a contribution to society, and the work they are doing is important. As Kofi Annan, Secretary General of the United Nations said "... each contribution -- no matter how small -- can help make a difference." Lu Hao, Lin Ying and Meng Yu are just three of the 13.5 million young Chinese who are making a difference, and they are also discovering that being a volunteer brings many personal benefits.

　　Lu Hao is a middle school student in Guizhou, who joined the "1 helps 1" scheme of the Youth Volunteer Community Development Project last year. Every Tuesday and Friday he visits an elderly gentleman who lives alone. "Mr Zhao is weak and cannot do much for himself without getting breathless and dizzy, so I give him some assistance. I help with shopping, do jobs in the house, or read the newspaper to him as his eyesight is not good. But mostly we just drink tea and chat. He cannot get out to see his friends any more, so he enjoys having company." Since Lu Hao began his twice weekly visits, Mr Zhao's health has improved, and he feels more energetic and optimistic. Lu Hao has also found their relationship beneficial. Previously history was his weakest subject, but it is one which greatly interests Mr Zhao and they often discuss it. Mr Zhao's enthusiasm has inspired Lu Hao to concentrate more on history lessons and his grades have improved a great deal.

_小精灵 儿童网