¿Habla español? Cheryl Barnett might not be fluent in Spanish, but that doesn't matter. She still makes a huge difference in her community by giving English lessons to immigrants in cooperation with Intercambio de Comunidades, a neighborhood organization that builds respectful communities and increases opportunities for immigrants through language education, cultural exchange, and friendship.

Cheryl is pastor of the Community of Christ church, where English lessons were offered even before she started volunteering for Intercambio de Comunidades. Four years ago, with a grant from the city, a partnership began with the Historic Eastside Neighborhood and Intercambio de Comunidades to offer English and Spanish classes at her church. "[The people I help] are just so appreciative of anything I do. They're so friendly and eager to learn," she said.

According to Barnett, the best thing about volunteering is "seeing the changes we can make in people's lives by giving them a head start by helping them learn to speak English." However, she admits she gets something out of volunteering as well.

"Through volunteering, I get back more than I give," she said. "The love and appreciation that I receive makes it all worth while."

For information about volunteering with Intercambio de Comunidades or other agencies, call the Volunteer Connection at 303-444-4904.