Roseville High School government teacher Jon Coleman has put a lot of his time outside of school into various activities that, according to Coleman, give him a greater sense of purpose in his community.

“I think working in the community is important because there’s always something that happens, you do what you need to do to make your community a better place,” Coleman said.

Coleman volunteers with The Red Cross and disaster services, Sacramento Medical Reserve Corps and the Elk Grove Galt: Community Emergency Response Team. Besides his volunteer work, Coleman is also the coach of  the RHS Trap Team, striving to set a good example for his students by volunteering and coaching.

“I think it’s important. I think it sets a good example for my students, my children and giving back to the community, everybody should,” Coleman said.

Despite the uneasiness most people feel while around kids with guns, Coleman sees it in a different light and wants to let them have fun while still staying safe.

“A lot of people think that kids and firearms don’t mix but if you do it in a safe, controlled environment they have a lot of fun and so do I,” Coleman said.

Not only does the Trap Team allow for students to pursue their passions, but it also gives Coleman an outlet to have fun with his students.

“I love it. I get to play with the kids,” Coleman said. “A day at the range is always a good day.”

The multiple hobbies Coleman are involved with are unique and fitting for his personality, according to RHS assistant principal Matt Pipitone.

“He’s a fun loving guy with a great sense of humor and a joy for life,” Pipitone said. “I think it’s pretty awesome. It’s not every day you know someone that involved in that sort of thing. It’s something he enjoys doing.”

Over the years, Coleman has taken it upon himself to give back to the community in hopes that in a time of need the community will give back to him.

“If I’m not willing to step up and help my community, how can I expect someone to step up and help me if I need help?” Coleman said.

Not only colleagues, but also Coleman’s students recognize his character, which shows in and out of the classroom.

“I didn’t know that Mr. Coleman did so much to help the community but it makes sense, he’s a good guy,” senior Ash Cayabyab said.

According to Coleman, he likes to stay busy and might as well help someone while doing so.

“I’m an EMT, I do a lot of first aid at events,” Coleman said. “I like working with people and helping put someone back together, it’s kind of fun.”

Coleman enjoys the interaction he gets with new people.

“It’s a lot of fun working in the community, people are generally grateful and it’s a great way to meet people,” Coleman said.

Coleman encourages everyone to give back in a way that they’re comfortable with and able to do.

“I think everybody should volunteer with something,” Coleman said. “Everyone has something to offer.”

Coleman’s active participation in RHS’ Trap Team has enabled many students to try something new and broaden their horizons.

“It’s a great thing, it’s been a great asset to this campus,” Pipitone said. “A whole lot of kids are involved in something they wouldn’t have normally done, or at least they found something they enjoy doing that’s connected to this school.”