Guest blogger: Diedra
So here at the Nabutilu Foundation we love to hear stories about volunteerism and what it means to people. It is for that reason that we are going to have guest bloggers share their stories about volunteering and the difference it has made in their own lives as well as the lives of others. Enjoy!
DIEDRA’S STORY
“…For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required…” – Luke 12:48
As a child, I remember my mom teaching me to be grateful and the importance of the helping others. My mom regularly made me go through my toys and clothes to select items to donate to the Salvation Army. This was a difficult task for a child. Seriously! I didn’t want to give up my valuable Cabbage Patch dolls or whatever toys were popular back then. After gathering my bag of items, my mom would remind me to be thankful because there were children who were less fortunate. She would go on to tell me that my items may be able to help someone who was in need. Whether it was making trips to the Salvation Army, tutoring younger children or spending the summer between 7th and 8th grade as a volunteer, I learned the value of giving and SACRIFICING to help others.
Fast forward several years and the lessons have stuck. As an adult, I’ve given countless volunteer hours to Habitat for Humanity, a local food bank supporting individuals with HIV/AIDS and raising money for non-profit organizations. For the last 4 years, I have ran (or walked) hundreds of miles in effort to raise awareness and funds for health-related charities.
I’m sure you’re wondering if I have a job. As a matter of fact, I have a full-time job and an active social life. I make time for things that are important to me 🙂 You can do the same. Whether you donate time or money, you can make a difference in the lives of others. Think about all that you have…supportive family & friends, health and employment. The least you can do is sacrifice some time and energy to help someone.
Why should you sacrifice your time to help someone else? Here are a few reasons.
- Enrich the lives of people.
- Enrich your own life by donating your time.
- Feel empowered and be part of a solution.
- Volunteering is simply the right thing to do.
Now find something you’re passionate about and go for it! The sacrifice will be worth it.
