TRUMAN SMITH

Truman Smith has volunteered his time to help beautify the landscape of several local schools. His work includes planting shrubs, flowers and trees and the upkeep of the landscaping. He also takes the time to read to the school children. Mr. Smith has donated hundreds of hours of his time annually for the past several years to make the Cape Girardeau Public School District a better place.

There is a dire need in the Cape Girardeau School District to help keep up the school grounds and playing fields. Mr. Smith graciously fills this role. Currently the budget for the Cape School District is very tight, and without all his hard work there would be no way the District could afford the upkeep. His volunteer work has touched not only the students and teachers that attend the school, but the entire community benefits from the beauty.

Mr. Smith takes a hands-on approach to his work by interacting with all of the students and teachers when he works. In addition to planting shrubs and trees, Mr. Smith plants vegetables on school grounds so the students can study them. He also takes the time to listen to the children as they read to them and makes sure he impacts the life of each student he meets.

Mr. Smith suffers from some physical limitations; however, he never lets them slow him down. His continued dedication and optimism has inspired the entire community. While many ignore the problems in the community, Mr. Smith continues to find new ways to lend a helping hand. His hard work and unselfish contribution to the community has made Cape Girardeau Public Schools the attractive learning centers they are today.