— Louisa May Alcott

E ducators are a fabric of the community. Teachers are the builders of our future. They are wonderful people who work with children, touching their lives with a word of hope and a smile of encouragement. They have a high calling, being a part of a force for good in the universe.

Walking into a classroom, teachers in any field charge the atmosphere with their very presence. Students hit the target wherever their teachers aim them. They must accentuate their success. The delightful connection between child and teacher comes out of the blue to inspire, excite and reassure. The fire of enthusiasm for teaching turns learning into a pleasurable experience.

In spite of terrible dangers, we have wonderful knowledge to share with the world’s people. Learning to read is a great achievement for all. We follow the steps of great educators who brought forth great ideas. We were raised in a time of simplicity. Times were not as complex as they are now.

The members of the York County Retired Educators Association are aware of something strong and powerful that helps them make their lives worthwhile, something within their own hearts: living a life of purpose, experiencing a deep sense of fulfillment and meeting the needs of humanity.

Retired teachers had the joy of meaningful accomplishments and satisfaction while teaching young folks. Now they are ordinary people, who in their everyday lives are striving to achieve goals that will lead forward.

The YCREA is proud to announce their annual fundraiser, “Fuel for Seniors,” in York County. The members of YCREA are selling raffle tickets, the prize is an Apple iPad Air 2, to assist York County seniors with buying fuel. The tickets are $5 each and the drawing will be held at the YCREA general meeting on Thursday, Nov. 12.

The YCREA is partnering with the Southern Maine Agency on Aging, which will be the recipient of all raffle proceeds to be used only for seniors in York County in need of fuel assistance. SMAA is a non-profit organization with the mission of improving the quality of life for older adults, adults with disabilities, and the people who care for them in York and Cumberland counties. SMAA offers many health and nutrition programs, resources and support, adult day services for people with dementia and their caregivers, and volunteer opportunities.

If you wish to purchase tickets for the raffle in support of this benefit, contact Shirley Jones at 283-8908, Sheila Painchaud at 282-1795, Gail Brayman at 985-7723, Sharon LeBlanc at 929-5014, Pat Kennedy at 384-4187 or Joan Warren at 499-2304.

Folks, I realize there have been many changes in education; however, 2 + 2 still = 4. My father once said, “Girls do not go to school.” But fate had other plans for me. My favorite class was in first grade. That is another story for another day.

— Zaffie Hadiaris of Saco is the host of “Zaffie,” a weekly television talk show on Channel 3 Biddeford public access. It can also be seen at biddefordmaine.org. Contact Hadiaris at zhadiaris@hotmail.com.