LaBelle Downtown Revitalization Corporation (LDRC) reminded us on their social media that this week is National Volunteer Week. The daughter of on of our favorite local barber, Rick Pope, Sydney Pope, was recognized for being a dedicated volunteer at many of LDRC’s events throughout the year! She was recently named LDRC’s Volunteer of the Year. Sydney Pope, was described as someone who is “always offering a helping hand with a sweet smile on her face,” by LDRC Executive Director, Kelly Boone.

11-year-old Sydney Marie Pope attends 5th grade at Lake Placid Elementary. “I live in Lake Placid. I’ve lived there for about 8 years. My dad’s barbershop connects me to LaBelle,” said Sydney, “I have 2 older brothers, a stepbrother and 2 stepsisters. I am the youngest.”

Currently, she is focusing on her education. “I am in advanced classes at school, and my favorite one is math. I enjoy crafting, rollerblading, and making things for my dolls.” But she has her eyes on her future goals, too. “I want to grow up to be a cosmetologist, taking after my dad. I want to have 4-6 kids and 3 big dogs,” she explained.

“I won the LDRC Volunteer Of the Year because I always attend the events when I’m in town, and offer to help with anything and everything. I started volunteering about a year ago because my stepmom is involved with LDRC and my dad’s business is downtown.” Sydney went on, “I love everything about volunteering, but my favorite thing is helping with the kids zone toys and games. Cleaning up trash afterward is the only bad part.” Busy as she is, Sydney also volunteers at the Firehouse Community Theatre and is interested in acting, too.

As for inspiration and motivation for her future, she gets that from her parents. “My dad inspires me to work hard to become a cosmetologist. My stepmom inspires me because I want to be involved with LDRC with my kids when I’m older. My mom cooks with me and gardens with me, she inspires me to spend time with my kids when I have them. I am motivated to become a better person by setting goals and achieving them.”

It makes sense then, that her favorite quote is, “Whatever you do, do it well,” by Walt Disney. Thanks, Sydney, for your hard work and for inspiring the rest of us to take action and volunteer where and when we can.