I believe that it is in all of us to give, just in different ways. Some give money, some give time, some give love, some give thought, some give clothes, some give rides, some give room, some give meals, and so on. It depends on the circumstance and what we are willing to give. There are also times when a “not now” policy is needed because we need to be given instead of giving. It’s the “take”, to balance out the “give”.
Reasons for giving vary but whatever your reason, whether it is a spur of the moment donation to dedicating yourself as a volunteer at an organization, somebody, somewhere is appreciative of whatever it was you had at that time to give.
I work for a non-profit organization working closely with volunteers in the office, the volunteer council, and committees. I also support 1400 volunteers in our region, donate from my bi-weekly cheque and run two events.
What I have learned is what it takes to make a difference. It takes time, commitment, caring, relationships, and change. The change for me was making a change in myself. Prior to working for the Heart and Stroke Foundation, I was involved in teaching dance and working admin jobs, raising a family and keeping my marriage going. Well surprise, surprise, I am still doing that, and have taken on even more.
I don’t ask for any pat on the back or recognition. I am a busy person and am happy to be that way. I have been able to identify when I need a break, and take it when I can. My list of volunteer projects for the upcoming year are enough to keep someone employed full time!
These are:
Highland For Heart!
Kayak for the Heart of It!
Timmins Heart of Gold Highland Dance Competition
Greater Sudbury Celtic Festival and Highland Games Highland Dance Competition
I’ve worked in many industries – investment, wood and retail. While those jobs were okay, none of them had me coming home excited to share the difference I was making. I worked with people who were at a job because they had to be. I now work with volunteers who are there because they want to.
My father is a by-pass survivor, and my father-in-law is a quadruple bypass survivor. I’ve seen what difference someone’s time makes from the family perspective. The other jobs I’ve held helped me to pay my bills. This job and the volunteering that comes with it, helps save lives.
It’s how I choose to give.
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