Becky Kessler, of Niles, is currently volunteering as treasurer for the Niles Service League, a philanthropic organization founded by a group of women interested in the welfare of the children in the greater Niles community. Projects include college and vocational scholarships, camperships, clothing for students and community contributions. To get involved, contact the organization through its Facebook page. Search for Niles Service League.

How did you first get involved with the Niles Service League?

Back when it (Niles Service League) first started, most women weren’t working so there was always enough people. Nowadays, with everyone working and so busy, our membership keeps getting lower and lower. I probably first learned about it from a post on Facebook or from friends of friends looking for new members. When I got involved five years ago, there was a three-year commitment, but I liked what I was doing so I stuck around. I was president my third year and then I stepped down and they wanted me to be treasurer. This is my second year doing that. We are always looking for more volunteers, especially with how busy our lives are today.

What do you do for the service league?

Basically, right now I take care of the bills. Also, all of us usually have an event that we are in charge of. We try to switch it around. Last year I did the 5K run. This year I am doing the Christmas Crafts For Kids. It is from 2 to 5 p.m. Dec. 20 at Howard Elementary School in the gym. Kids can come and make crafts and there will also be a bounce house and popcorn. It is $8 per kid.

What do you enjoy about volunteering for the service league?

One thing that really grabs me is the interaction I have with kids at Christmas time. There was a little girl that just wanted a pink pillow — something simple that is so trivial. She was so happy over that pillow and it made me want to do that more often for more kids. It is the little things like that that keep me around.

Why is it important to volunteer?

We are one of the places out there that you can contact if you need those simple things — food, blankets, boots, coats. I enjoy that we are able to go into the school and ask if there is a little kid that needs something — socks or a coat or a hat. We can help out with that. Even if you aren’t volunteering, you can still help by spreading the word for us about an event or that we are looking for coats. If you share that on Facebook it is huge for us. It reaches more and more people.