Volunteering is a way to get out of yourself for an hour, or a day. Thinking of what you can do to contribute, possibly help a stranger, later to become a friend.
Having three children in elementary school, volunteering was a way to keep on the inside track of what went on there, in the office and classrooms. I joined the PTA. It resembled some of the negative connotations it has today, but I felt it was important at the time. A leadership role was challenging, as working with volunteers always is. Part of that is by volunteering, people feel freer than in a “paid” job, sometimes creating conflict. Leading a number of powerful minded women was a challenge, but I loved it anyway. All in all I felt I had accomplished something.
I have strong feelings about veterans and military personnel, and volunteer at the local VA hospital. It started as a way to meet people and give something back. I had no idea what would happen, but dove in anyway. The need to do more nags at me. Of course there’s always self doubt involved. Am I really helping, a worthy volunteer?
Whatever your personal choice, volunteers are needed everywhere. Try it, you might like it more than you think.
The Bag Lady 