THINGS I WISH MY KIDS WOULD ASK ME
Editor’s note: Barry Courter has a 22-year-old son who recently graduated from college and a 17-year-old daughter who is a senior in high school.
Q: Dad, what do I need to know about serving on a community board or a charitable committee?
A: First, these are noble and wonderful things, and everyone should volunteer at some point. You also should know that serving on one will lead to being asked to serve on dozens. They breed like mice. Commit to do them only if you can actively participate and contribute. Ask hard questions first about time, money, travel and other obligations. You should definitely give back, but only if you can really contribute.
— By Barry Courter