Look around you…then ask yourself, ‘Who needs my help
today?’ That could very likely be step one in getting involved in your
community. Really!
Keep in mind that many organizations and non-profits rely
solely on donations and volunteers to survive. You may not think that you alone
can make a difference, but think again!
It’s easy to immerse ourselves in our own little world, and our
own problems and concerns. We need to be mindful of our families and their
wellbeing. But, look around and see who might need some assistance in your
community. By giving of oneself with our talents and time, it’s amazing what
you can accomplish, and how you can help others. By determining where your
interests or talents lie, you could be a valuable asset as a volunteer!
Some people get involved in their community because they
have children. For example, they may coach their son or daughter’s soccer team.
Yet others find themselves getting involved in a cause, perhaps borne from an
interest, or even an illness or accident of a loved one or themselves…still
others develop a passion they may have wanted to pursue, and in doing so, they
may be helping others.
You may want to exercise your creativity through the arts,
non-profit organizations, or even a synagogue, church, or temple. Several worthy organizations that I have had
personal experience with are my church and Fresh Start Women’s Foundation. I
serve on the Courtesy team at my church, and also participate (as an actor) in
the monthly Family Experience, or FX Live presentation. Places of worship often
rely heavily on the contributions of the time and talent of members. I have met some amazing people there, and feel
that in some small way I am making a difference. Getting involved in missions
trips, or contributing financially so that others may take the trip are easy ways
to get involved. I have also served as a
class facilitator at a women’s organization, and have helped outfit women in
career clothing in preparation for an interview or a new job. These rewarding
experiences have allowed me to not only meet important and influential people,
but to assist those who I am there to serve.
Perhaps you have always had a keen interest in politics. Why
not volunteer for your party or candidate’s campaign? In a similar way, giving
of your time or resources to a civic cause can be more far reaching than you
may think.
Most people think that helping out at a shelter or food bank
during the holidays is a great way to get involved, and while it certainly is, do
keep in mind that help is needed 365 days per year. You could organize a group
of friends to volunteer on a bi-monthly basis, or hand out water bottles during
the summer at the local food bank. Habitat for Humanity always accepts assistance,
whether you’re a semi-professional painter, or have never even used a hammer.
There are always ways to get involved!
If you have an interest in acting or serving behind the
scenes, perhaps getting involved in your local community theatre is an option.
I have a friend that volunteers as an usher at one of the theatres in our town,
and the caveat is that it allows him to see all the plays!
Do you enjoy pets, but are unable to have one? Consider
donating your time at a pet shelter. Organizations such as ‘Home Fur Good’ will
train volunteers to act as dog handlers and adoption counselors. Shelters need
people to walk dogs and clean pets’ quarters.
Visiting a retirement community or the ward of a children’s
hospital is a great way to spend your time. One look at a grateful child will
melt your heart, and make you realize how important a few moments of your time
is to them. Reading to elderly patients in a group home may bring joy to the
residents. You might also consider serving as a volunteer at your local hospital
at the information desk or gift shop.
Big Brothers/Big Sisters is another important and worthy
organization, as is the Boys and Girls Club. There are many diverse
opportunities within those organizations that serve children.
Most cities host large events, and will advertise for help
and train volunteers, and it’s a great way to meet like-minded people who share
your passions.
Finally, there are those who are
unable to physically serve others, but who give of their financial resources. I
know a very dear woman who cannot idly watch the children in third world
countries drink polluted ‘drinking’ water that animals are bathing in
simultaneously. She gives from her heart, has been instrumental in the building
of several water wells, and in turn, is getting involved in a global effort.
So, you see, getting involved is much more than donating a
few spare hours on a Saturday—you may be changing lives unaware.
Diane McLelland has been
called a ‘fashionista’ from a young age, acquiring her love of a fashion after
enrolling in Sears Charm School as a young girl. After earning her degree in
Fashion Merchandising and Business, she gained experience by appearing in movies,
commercials, and magazine layouts in the Phoenix area, and worked as a flight
attendant for over 15 years. Diane considers herself to be a personal shopper
as she shops for family and friends whenever possible. She has written for a
travel publication and numerous newsletters and currently works as a Career
Services Advisor, assisting students find viable work in their chosen fields.
She has two grown sons, and along with dog Cooper and ‘his’ two cats, resides
in the Valley of the Sun - Phoenix AZ.
