Why Volunteer
Many times we ponder whether we have the time or money to help others. Sometimes, I think we actually need to ask whether or not we have the energy to help others? It has been a rough two years with the pandemic. Sadly, many more individuals and families are struggling in various ways they may have never had to deal with; depression, anxiety, money, bills, food, health, unemployment, day care, home schooling, and finding time for self care.
For those that know me, they could tell you I have seen and lived both sides of the spectrum. Receiving help, and giving help. When I was a child my life literally depended on various nonprofit and government assistance agencies to provide adequate food, basic necessities, health care, clothing, and household bills assistance. I would like to sincerely thank all of the food banks, Salvation Army, County Assistance programs, Angel Food Ministries – the list goes on – for the help these agencies gave as they stepped up and assisted my family.
So you may be wondering why am I asking you to volunteer or help? Without your help these agencies would cease to exist. Think of that! They rely on volunteers and community support to help those in your community. A couple years ago I had the opportunity to work with a local nonprofit homeless shelter. It was the last one in a 45-50 mile area. They were struggling, only operating on a budget of less than $100,000. This homeless shelter allows not just a secular group like women and children, or men – NO, it allows families. Many times when people become homeless, families are separated because homeless shelters typically only offer to women or men. The fact that this homeless shelter was the last one within a 40/50 mile radius too should create a wakeup call to our society. Those that find themselves without shelter typically don’t have transportation, the means,, or the ability to even travel 10 miles.
Two years ago I had organized a benefit ball, Masquerade for a Cause, to raise funds for this shelter. In doing so, I was honored to become a board member and then… Covid happened. For a short time the shelter had to close down. In the world’s most vulnerable time – the last ray of hope for some was closed off. We need to do better for those struggling. I understand there may be mixed feelings about wanting to help those that are struggling, or maybe you are on the brink of struggling yourself. When we start offering our hands to others, the difference we make could start the chain reaction in their lives to want to change. That is when we will start seeing a better place, a better community, a strengthened community of neighbors and family.
Many people don’t understand, but the reality is – it is hard at times for families to solely rely on government assistance. I’ve lived and seen it. I can also share that it is not always the fault of the person that is on assistance. My mother worked two different jobs when I was a teenager and there were still times where we didn’t have electricity or need to contact the Food Bank or sign up for the Angel Food Ministry food drives. Sure my mother should have went to school or tried to better her life (she eventually did and I am proud of who she is) but, do you know how hard it is for a child/ teenager who is already living in poverty to wrap their mind around attending college or how they will pay for it? Do you really think for one second they are thinking of how to improve their lives when there is no food on the table and they are hungry? If poverty is all they know – how do they get out?
Volunteers! Yup, the answer is that simple. One positive influence. One positive encounter with a stranger can make all of the difference. It had with me and I know I have spoken to others that have had similar experiences. One small act of kindness that was given to me when I was just 8 years old stuck with me which created a drive to change my narrative. I won’t lie, the course I took in life was not an easy one and many mistakes were made.
Although I have been serving my community for the past twelve years by serving amongst the men in women in uniform; over the past couple of years I had finally dived all in and started volunteering within my community through various nonprofit agencies and other organizations. A big one I talk about a lot is the Salvation Army, which will always have a special place in my heart. I personally find much joy in being able to help others, I would be lying if I said I only do it to help others, it really does make me feel better and happier. If you actually google the benefits to volunteering you will find that it is clinically proven to raise self-esteem; gives your life purpose; creates a network of friends and colleagues; can be used on a resume to show job skills; combats depression; and instills self-confidence.
Do you want to get started and see for yourself? Start at your local church, school, library, community center. A wide array of nonprofits such as Food Banks; United Way; Big Brother, Big Sister; shelters; the Salvation Army; or even the Red Cross. Other places that are not nonprofits but would still allow you to volunteer: hospitals; personal care homes; Meals on Wheels; literally anywhere, all you have to do is ask.
With my initiative anytime you volunteer please start using the hashtag #communityempowerment
We are the makers of the future and there is no better time to start than today. When you come across someone that is a volunteer, please thank them – they have stepped up to the need and cause. Many volunteers amid the pandemic are facing many distressed individuals and families on a daily basis and are finding themselves in uncharted territory. We are stronger together.
~Amanda~
#amandamarie #endpoverty #commuityservice #volunteer #poverty #helponeanother #community #salvationarmy #charity
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