How Volunteering Can Help You Stay Connected to the Community & Make Friends.

Many of our most successful people are working to improve the welfare of others or to provide leadership to their industry. But there is no surprised to learn that volunteering in your community can have a great impact on both the recipient and the volunteer. For me, the motivation to help others is just one of the benefits I get from volunteering. Thinking beyond yourself to make a difference to someone else, that's what's kept me involved with Rotary International for more than twenty-three years.

The question is, why would you want to help others?

Because I wanted to share my knowledge and skills, and help others grow and succeed at whatever they choose. I believe in leaving a kinder society and treating people the way you want to be treated. Look towards your life with an open heart and an open mind, you might just be surprised by the difference you can make.

Why did you choose to volunteer?

I simply got asked if I would like to be involved with Rotary? I said what is it and what do they do, and it started from there. What has kept me involved was the opportunity to make a difference within our local community, overseas, with youth, and the environment.

How did your involvement help?

Sometimes it's just an extra pair of hands that is needed, other times it's the skills, it might even just be the connections that a person has. It's just a simple fact that helping others also helps you enjoy your life and gives you a greater appreciation for people who are less fortunate.

What motivated you to become a volunteer?

I started volunteering in the late '90s. The motivation came from seeing the difference one person could make when supported by and organisation and team that were adaptive and flexible to ideas and change. Even the head of Rotary International only holds the job for one year, the same as a club President. So the people that take on leadership roles are very keen to make something happen.

What are some of the things you do to remain fulfilled?

Well, it's saying yes when needed, it's keeping an eye open on where the organisation can make a difference. The main thing is the friendships that I have made with some great like-minded people that also want to make a difference. "Service Above Self", not a bad way to live your life.

Did volunteering fulfil you emotionally?

Yes, volunteering fulfilled me emotionally. I learned a lot about how people work and also made new friends in the process. I also felt needed, and this gave me immense satisfaction. Knowing that the organisation had complete trust in me, and supported me made me feel good.

What is one of your favourite volunteering experiences?

One of my favourite volunteering experiences, wow that's a tough one. It's not just one big thing or project it's all the little moments along the way that you share with the people you help and the people you work with.

How much time do you have to volunteer for in Rotary?

That's easy, whatever you have time for. It's not about meetings every week, it's about making a difference where and when you can. If you would like more information about volunteering or Rotary International check out their website. https://www.rotary.org/en

Consider just these simple four points.

Is it the truth?

Is it fair to all concerned?

Will it build goodwill and better friendships?

Will it be Beneficial to all concerned?

"The Four-Way Test of the things we think, say or do. This is not a bad way to live your life and can apply to all aspects of your life, and this is just another reason to be involved in volunteering in an organisation where 100% of the money raised for projects goes to projects.