A Full Life – Marc’s Story
Marc Beneteau has many roles: he is a valued volunteer, a coach, an avid baseball player, a talented musician, and an active member of the Knights of Columbus. He participates weekly in Church as an Alter Server as well as a Youth Group Leader. He attends Thursday night “jam sessions” where he has learned to play the drums. Marc helps his dad on the farm and also has many household responsibilities. Marc is a cherished son, an adored brother, and a playful uncle. He has been a groomsman four times! His life is very busy and that’s the way he likes it!!
Marc became very involved in his community from a very young age. He played baseball and Soccer in the local community leagues and took swimming lessons. He later went on to become an All Ontario Medalist in Swimming. He joined his Church Youth Group as a young boy and eventually decided to become a leader. As a leader, he facilitates many activities for the young group members including games, field trips, prayer circles, and recreational activities. As a teen, he decided to join the Squires of Woodslee. He became involved in many fundraising activities through this organization and eventually graduated to an Executive Member of the Knights of Columbus. Marc continues to play baseball weekly in a mixed league, and actively attends the Youth Group and the Knights of Columbus meetings and functions. Marc does not drive, but he has made arrangements with other members for rides.
Marc has received many awards for his accomplishments. Last year he was the recipient of the Yellow Rose Award in for his Volunteerism. In 2009, he was chosen to carry the Torch through Leamington during the Winter Olympics. He has also participated in many community events including the Rick Hansen Relay in Belle River.
When Marc was in High School, he participated in a Co-operative Education Program. It was there that he discovered his passion for working with children and youth. After two very successful placements in Elementary Schools, he decided that he had found his niche. After graduation he created a resume and approached a few elementary schools in his community. He received a call from a local elementary school teacher and his dream began to unfold.
Marc has been volunteering in Linda’s classroom for the past three years. From Linda’s point of view, he is an invaluable member of the school team. His responsibilities include photocopying, moving AV equipment, delivering snack bins, tidying classrooms, and much more. With his positive attitude and excellent work ethic, he is a wonderful role model for all of the students. Marc never takes a day off except for a few weeks each Spring when he and his family travel to Florida. During that time, the staff and the students really feel his absence and look forward to his return. Marc is highly valued and respected in this volunteer position. Recently, Marc approached some of the school team coaches and offered his assistance. With his own experience playing sports, he knew he had a lot to offer. He is now very much in demand as a coach at this school as he teaches the athletes the true meaning of teamwork and good sportsmanship. Marc never misses a practice, a game, or a tournament.
Cathy Beneteau (Marc’s mom) has dedicated a great deal of time and commitment to ensure that Marc is an active and contributing member of his community. This process began when Marc was a young boy and continues to this day. What is her advice to other parents?
“ Join activities that your son/daughter enjoys and then look through the crowd for the person with the “heart”. They are out there. There is always someone who will appreciate the gifts that your child has to offer and who will work with you to ensure that he/she is included in all the opportunities and experiences the other participants are enjoying.”