MUSCATINE, Iowa — It’s been almost two years since Pat Carter’s husband, Daryll, passed away, and after 42 years of marriage,  Pat knew she faces some difficult adjustments.

The path she chose to begin a new life without her husband not only helped her, it’s bringing joy to many area children.

“I was looking for something positive to do with my life,” said Pat, 65. “In November 2007, I decided to look into the Big Brothers/Big Sisters , which is a fabulous program.”

Big Brothers/Big Sisters, a program of the Muscatine Community Y, matches adults with children and teens whose families agree they would benefit from some one-on-one time with an adult mentor.

Pat became involved in the program through an in-school program at  Garfield/Franklin Elementary School where she soon learned of the many other volunteer opportunities at the school.

“I shelve books in the library,” said Pat. “And I’ve gone on field trips with the students. There is always so much to do.”

Last winter, Pat accepted an invitation from Garfield/Franklin counselor Jeanne Johnson to guide a craft activity for interested students twice a week, an activity she continued leading this year.

Pat has also taken on the role of Big Sister to some Garfield/Franklin students since she became involved with the program. Last year, she mentored a fifth-grade girl lin the Big Brothers/ Sisters in school program. That child now attends middle school, and Pat continues to meet with her during non school hours.

This year, Pat has another in-school Little Sister, a fourth-grader at Garfield/Franklin.

She also leads anywhere from 12-20 Garfield/ Franklin fourth-grade girls in the craft club during recess on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Sessions are not mandatory, and sometimes the girls use their recess time for catching up on school work, or going outside.

The girls are catching Pat’s example of volunteerism. This school year, they made Christmas cards for residents at the Muscatine Care Center, a long-term care facility, and Valentine cards for the people who live at Carrington Place, which also provides long-term care in Muscatine.

“I like making things for the nursing homes,” said student Shelby Ritchie.

“Everything we do is fun,” said student Amber Alcala.

Pat’s enthusiasm has spread to adults, too.

For example, her sister, Georgia Snyder of Muscatine, picks up crafting items for the club from flea markets and discount stores.

Pat said her volunteer work brings many joys.

Tuesday, student Aria Bickett, who attends the club with her twin sister Sydney, wrote “Miss Pat is a crafty leader,” on her artwork and brought it to Pat, who gave her a hug in return.

“This crafting club has meant a lot to me,” said Pat. “I still miss my husband terribly, but these girls have filled a void in my life. I look forward to Tuesdays and Thursdays.”