Three Worthwhile Things…

By Janet Dodrill

When I think of what things bring value to my life and satisfy my soul the list goes on and on. But, three worthwhile things I have done this year are:

1) Obtain a volunteer internship
2) Volunteer for a position at a professional organization
3) Create a piece of original art

I have been privileged to intern regularly at an evolving Cleveland urban start-up charter school. Entrepreneurship Preparatory School (E Prep) is part of the Zealous Schools, and in working in their development office I get to experience first hand the nurturing and cultivating of a successful venture which has transformed underachievers into exemplary students grades 6-8, high ranking in Ohio math and reading test scores. This is having a positive effect on the community and neighborhood.

Having been a member of Cleveland Digital Publishing Users Group for 13 years, this year has been special because of serving as president. It has enabled me to provide input at an already established organization with membership surpassing 100 consisting of graphic arts, photography, writing, video and web development industry professionals. It has been a pleasure to serve with some of its friendly members on their Board, and has given me exposure as a member and freelance designer, as well as presentation experience.

Recently, I created an original piece of artwork to enter into a juried art show, and was also fortunate to be selected to exhibit. Because of the deadline I stayed motivated and on track with designing and producing the piece, a linoleum cut print. The process stimulated my creative desires and I learned the printmaker’s demands required of both producing an appealing image as well as a technically good print. It required a lot of discipline but has already lead to my start of another print.

These things have been very rewarding to me this year, and there are many things like this — the best part being that I am aware of these good things and open to the new experiences.