As the new volunteer coordinator for Patrol Squadron (VQ) 1, Yeoman 1st Class Sophia Graham has taken the lead to help build a strong community.  Graham recently stepped in for Senior Chief Aviation Electrician’s Mate Craig Olson who is currently deployed to Iraq.

At VQ-1, many Sailors deploy every two to four months, so they appreciate the volunteers’ efforts at mentoring the young ones left back at home.

“Parents may not have time based on their deployment schedule, so why not pick up the slack and go give that time back at the schools,” said Graham.

Graham recalls her own upbringing, and how volunteers were such a part of her growth and development.

“I’ve been volunteering for a long time and give back because I know [volunteer programs] were beneficial to me.”

Her spirit of volunteerism is another example of how teamwork keeps the Navy running. 

“The school that we have is made up of primarily military’s children, so the majority of our Sailors’ children are in that school.”

Graham notes that it is not always easy for Sailors to fit volunteering into their schedule, particularly on weekends.

“I don’t fault the Sailors for that. Time is limited,” she said.

For Sailors that can find time to volunteer, the rewards are great.

“I think that’s the best service that you can give. It’s a lot of fun and the students keep me on my toes. They keep me hip,” Graham said. “Depending on what you are volunteering for it can open up some doors—get you a different outlook on things.”

Time spent volunteering might take away from family time, but the example parents set might well make up for that.

“To me volunteering is a priority, and I try to make sure that my children see that giving beyond themselves is a huge thing, so when they get older it’s just not that ‘me, me, I, I’ concept,” said Graham.

Currently, Sailors from VQ-1 are giving back to their community by volunteering with the Oak Harbor School District. Sailors are offer their time and effort year round, and Sailors are currently gearing up to read to children for the Read Across America project, where on March 2 they will read to students at Olympic View Elementary school for 30 minutes each.

Through her volunteer work and coordination, Graham sets the example within her community, and will continue to open doors of opportunity for her fellow Sailors.