Volunteering takes many different forms, from helping patients at local hospitals and those benefited by community organizations to supporting political campaigns or serving on global medical missions. Regardless of the service, volunteering is a bit of a paradox:  it takes time, has an emotional and financial cost, and can come with headaches and challenges; yet it is also one of the most rewarding things a person can do.

Most volunteers share some common characteristics.  In our experience, volunteers are:

Selfless – Volunteers sacrifice their time, energy and services without expecting anything in return.  And yet, almost every volunteer will tell you that they receive just as much if not more, in return.

Committed – If a volunteers says they will contribute or do something, they do their absolute best to deliver. 

Dedicated – Volunteers have no “off” switch.  They are always working and helping even if they are simply sharing information, recruiting friends or promoting social media sites for their organizations.

Passionate – Volunteers bring give their best with every ounce of energy to every project they undertake.  And, their passion is infectious.

Flexible – Often, the best of plans can unravel, yet volunteers never do.  They seem to have a unique ability to adapt in situations to ensure a successful outcome.

Creative – Volunteers are out of the box thinkers. They look at the world and its challenges and find ways to go over, under, around, through or above them to drive success.

Integrity – Volunteers are trusted and take on incredible responsibilities. The care they have for their organization and constituents comes through in the way they serve.

Aligned – Volunteers who fulfill personal goals that align with the goals of the organizations they work with stick with their volunteering, are the most satisfied with their experiences, and the most effective volunteers.

Sound familiar?  It does to us, and we’d like to take this opportunity to applaud the volunteers we know and those we don’t. Thank you for making our world a better place to live.
 
~Michael and Frida Donner