Last week was National Volunteer Week, a week to recognize and celebrate those volunteers who make their communities and the world a better place. This is also a time to encourage acts of volunteerism, calling on others to give their time.
I was reminded of this during my most recent volunteer shift at the Oregon Coast Aquarium. The volunteer program at the Aquarium is strong, with about 250 (!) folks giving of their time and the Aquarium staff does a great job of recognizing us all year long. They really stepped it up for Volunteer week with food and other goodies and presentations by the animal care providers.
I carry a long history of volunteerism, something my mom encouraged. I think it goes back to my Candy Striper (do those still exist?) days at a local hospital, and it may even precede that. I’ve taken breaks here and there, but not for long.
National Volunteer Week is a joint effort of two organizations: Points of Light Foundation, inspired by President George H.W. Bush’s speech in which he referred to volunteer organizations as “points of light;” and Volunteer Canada, formed in 1977 to provide national leadership and expertise on volunteer engagement, to increase the participation, quality, and diversity of volunteer efforts.
Volunteering is a win-win. You give to others as well as yourself:
- The organization you are volunteering for can divert the money it saves on payroll to improving their program. The people, animals, environment or other causes receive the benefit of your work.
- You get to introduce others to something they may know little about.
- You meet new like-minded people. You also meet people you would not normally interact with.
- You accumulate a wealth of new knowledge – just ask how many sunflower sea stars were lost to sea star wasting disease, or how you can tell the difference between sea lions and harbor seals, or how much fur is in one square inch of sea otter fur.
- If you’re retired, it keeps your body and mind busy, as well as expands your social network.
- If you’re working you expand your business network, and hones many different skills.
- Knowing your are contributing to a cause you care about will enrich your life in countless ways.
- You become more compassionate and are reminded how connected you are to all of life.
- You may pick up a new hobby. Tide-pooling anyone?
Deciding to volunteer involves taking a look at your current situation first so you can fit this activity into your schedule on a regular basis. My advice to you (from personal experience) is to take it slow and don’t over-extend yourself. Burnout among volunteers is high and then you’re not doing anyone any good. Investigate your volunteer possibilities in your own community. Embrace all of the enriching experiences that volunteering offers.
And don’t forget to thank a volunteer. Volunteer Week may be over, and while April is Volunteer Month, there’s never a bad time to say thank you!
Carolynne
How do you like the aquarium?
Susan Madden
LOVE the aquarium! For all the reasons.