Willard Bissell's kind heart and sense of humor have served him well in his volunteer work as an English instructor for Intercambio de Comunidades. Bissell, who has worked for Intercambio for the last year, is taking a brief hiatus from his volunteer work to enjoy some fishing. He plans to return to the organization this fall. "People love him," said Eliberto Mendoza, Program Director for the Longmont Intercambio office.

Intercambio de Comunidades works to build respectful communities and increase opportunities for immigrants through language education, cultural exchange, and friendship.

"He is such an accepting person. And he's super funny. If I were new to this country, he is the kind of person I would like to meet," said Mendoza.

Bissell has volunteered for a number of other area organizations, including Community Food Share, the OUR Center, Art in Public Places, and Friends of the Museum. Bissell said he has made friends through his volunteer work and he enjoys helping others assimilate into the culture.

"Volunteering is one of the real values you can have as an individual. It'll make you feel better-more valuable," he said.

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