In the past we used to organize volunteer "teas" at the end of the year to say thank you to our school volunteers. The teas were held after school, in each of the five district school buildings, on days that were different from each other. That way a volunteer who helped in more than one building could conceivably attend two (or more!) different "teas". Our volunteer turn-out usually ranged from mediocre to down-right poor. No big surprise when I look back. The time of day was convenient for teachers and staff but terribly inconvenient for the very people we wanted to recognize-our volunteers! I decided to organize an event that would be more volunteer friendly, one with food, family and friends. Now for the past 4 years, we have had a big end-of-the-year picnic for all the volunteers of the district and their family members, to celebrate the year and their contribution to our schools. There is no meal cost to the volunteer or their family members and we get together around 5:30 pm to accommodate the majority of work schedules. We eat, visit with each other, hear a few words on volunteerism, hand out awards, and that's it! People are able to get out of there within an hour or so. Volunteers appreciate having family members included and being able to get to evening meetings or home at reasonable times. The staff of the district help with decorating, serving food and clean up. Financially, we utilize donations and keep costs down by doing one event rather than 5 separate events. We serve about 200 people hamburgers, salad, chips, a cookie and beverage. Hamburgers are grilled by a local men's service group. It is a great way to end the year!