My experience with 'Ohana100 has been nothing but gratifying from the get-go.

Everyone involved has been so uplifting ...the Mattson Ohana, the other volunteers, the kids, and the teachers. I'm from the east coast, where my family still lives, and while being far away from them is difficult, I've been lucky enough to meet these inspiring people through 'Ohana100.

Other than the occasional story to nieces and nephews and a random oral presentation class in college, I had no experience with public speaking at all. What a joyful experience this has been so far! The children's reactions to the content are priceless, from the gasps, squealing laughter, and everything in between. A couple of favorites on rotation that most kids can't get enough of are "Dear Zoo" by Rod Campbell, & "This Book is Full of Monsters" by Guido Van Genechten.

So many memorable moments to speak of ...at a book distribution event, hearing the kids talk about trading books with each other after they finish the one they have ...when I come in & kids pounce to choose which book they want read first that day ...a little girl approaching me after a reading to tell me that she wants to read to her little sister ...and most recently a group shared a couple of song and dance numbers with me before I left for the day :)

I joined ‘Ohana100 hoping to make a difference, and share something of what I enjoyed as a child. A couple of my favorite books to this day are children’s books, “Oh, The Places You’ll Go!”, by Dr. Seuss, and “The Giving Tree”, by Shel Silverstein, which still makes me emotional. These days I've been keeping it light, reading autobiographies by comediennes.

I have a full time job, enjoy hanging out and eating with friends, and watching movies in my spare time, but I always try to make time to volunteer for 'Ohana100, among other great organizations. I highly recommend finding an organization that speaks to your heart, and sign up to volunteer. As much as you share of yourself, you'll be happily surprised by all that you get from the experience.

Oftentimes I wonder if I’ve made as much of an impact with the children I’ve met thru this program, as they have affected me. In the end, I decide that as long as I’ve shared a positive experience with them, even with just one book, we leave each other happy that day.

Gabby Alo