By Kailana Williams

   Encountering the occasional snake or lizard is not a rare occurrence in Arizona but for ninth grader Hazel Hurlbut, it is a frequent experience. 

   Hazel volunteers with an organization called Liberty Wildlife, which rehabilitates and conserves wildlife in Arizona. 

   Hazel takes on all sorts of responsibilities: she handles animals who are unable to return to their wild habitats and leads guest tours. She has also been “trained in holding four snakes, (an) ornate box turtle, and the baby desert tortoises” and informs and guides guests on how to pet these animals. Her assistance in teaching people about Arizona wildlife helps raise awareness and conservation.

   Hazel recommends joining or supporting a volunteer advocacy organization such as this one because it has taught her “a lot of good skills” and has helped her “practice public speaking and presenting to the public.” Volunteering does not just look good on a resume, but it also works hand in hand with expanding horizons, learning new skills and information and, in Hazel’s case, keeping the environment safe.