Diane Gossett is Curtsinger Elementary's community service coordinator overseeing the school's community project for Victoria Gardens of Frisco, a nursing home.  She plans activities throughout the year that involve students creating cards, making seasonal decorations and class projects to bring alive images from the eyes of a child for Victoria Gardens Nursing Home residents.  Going a step beyond the call of duty, Diane personally devotes her time each weekend by visiting Victoria Gardens with her registered therapy dog, Luke.  She has spent countless hours dedicating her time with Luke, (black lab), so that together they may bring joy to those that have the most needs.  The residents wait patiently each Saturday morning for the arrival of Diane and Luke.  Both are members of the Heart of Texas Therapy Dogs, a volunteer organization that serves the Dallas area.

In addition to this, Luke has become somewhat of a celebrity at the Frisco Library program called "Reading with Rover", as they work together to motivate children to read.  They are also frequent visitors at the Ronald McDonald House in downtown Dallas.  What a difference Diane Gossett and Luke have made to the service of others!  When asked what inspires her to give of her time to all of these community projects, her response was, "It's not hard when you do something that you love."  She's one to call a hero.  Her life exemplifies the kind of traits and community service we are achieving to develop in the students at Curtsinger Elementary.

By Rhonda Taylor

Curtsinger Elementary