I Volunteer As Tribute

It's that time of year when we most often think about the well-being of others. I received an overflow of Giving Tuesday messages this week paired with a boost of upcoming donation drive promotions. It's almost impossible not to ponder about a cause worth supporting. Collectively, we're also prioritizing our social health as we gather in the community with family and friends. Before I go any further, I couldn't resist the urge to quote Hunger Games in this edition's title. I just can't reference the word volunteer without paying homage, and I entirely blame the overused meme on social media. Now that I've (sorta) introduced the subject, I want to share a recent volunteer experience I did the Thursday before Thanksgiving.

I'm on year three of giving up my bed for one-night in solidarity of eradicating youth homelessness with the non-profit organization Covenant House Greater Washington . The Sleep Out event is far from a typical occurrence in which you sacrifice a few hours of your time but more so a human connection experience. You can give folks all the stats about the housing crisis and the factors that lead to and perpetuate homelessness, but once I was handed that cardboard box and sleeping bag, the temporary reality set in. And despite being an uncharacteristically mild November night in Washington, DC (cough, cough, global warming), I still didn't fully experience the effects of this rain or snow movement that 4 million adolescents experience daily.?

I slept better last year, for sure, as I woke up with a stiff back and immediately fantasized about my next massage appointment. Then I was flushed with guilt, as that wellness treatment is not an option for any person experiencing homelessness. Note: I'm consciously not using the term homeless people because that is not who they are; it's what they are currently overcoming. We were given a distinct challenge this year as we packed our belongings that morning and thanked the overnight security for keeping us safe:

Avoid catching up on sleep or showering immediately after you get home.

You can capture the full Sleep Out agenda by participating from 10 PM - 6:00 AM, but continuing your day with this disadvantaged start would ultimately mirror what a complete day without housing embodies. So, I accepted the challenge. I went straight to the gym since this is the only time I would make a 6:30 AM Pilates class (if you're new here, I'm a night owl). I attended a CreativeMornings chat and prepared for an afternoon flight to Florida. I admittedly hit a wall as I boarded the plane. The one thing that did not waver that day was my gratitude, and it might have been my first complaint-free day in L O N G time. I'm sure a negative thought or two formed, but I was responsible for the idea leading to action.?

There is a clear connection between the advocacy of causes and the direct benefit to others, but we seldom associate the mental health benefits to the individual who volunteers their time. NAMI outlines the benefits of volunteerism?here. I'm most interested in the reduction of stress, anger, and anxiety. My Sleep Out experience did not erase any of my problems. I obviously could have found something worth expressing anger towards in my life, but I decided not to give in to that urge. Sleep Out won't be an event for everybody, yet. However, there are two other ways you can make an impact this season of giving:

Lending your talent.?

If you're reading this right now, you have a unique gift from God. It could be a hobby you enjoy or skill you excel at on the job. Ask the people in your circle if you need confirmation on your gifts.

Spending your treasure.

Cash. If you don't have time to volunteer or share your gifts. Share your resources with organizations that are doing the work. Or give to an individual directly.

Most assume volunteerism only applies to strangers and forget entirely about those closest to us who struggle or could use an extra dose of kindness. Hosting or organizing family or friend gatherings can sometimes be a thankless job. Last week, if you attended a Thanksgiving dinner at someone's home, they are probably still recovering. I can't think of a better way to repay someone for hosting than donating your time to run an errand or sending a token of appreciation. If you were that host, here's your permission slip to treat yourself. The holidays are a marathon, so recharge your social battery however you see fit.

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