William Penn Life, 1999 (34. évfolyam, 2-12. szám)
1999-04-01 / 4. szám
V c : ’olunteerism. The thought seems strangely out of step in our hurry-filled, me-first world. At first glance, volunteerism seems to offer little to those who give of their time and talents. Yet, rather than feeling diminished by their selfgiving, volunteers affirm that they feel "more whole" as a result of their efforts. They feel more connected to the people around them. They feel better about themselves in doing good for others. Ironically, volunteers' lives are richer, fuller and more satisfying for choosing to help others. Unfortunately, we easily forget that in giving we receive. When volunteerism isn't promoted, when its message of caring isn't sounded, opportunities to serve are lost. As a result, those who most need our help suffer from our neglect, and the possible benefits of self-giving are lost. We need to be reminded of the intrinsic worth of volunteerism. To better promote volunteerism, the 9.3 million Americans affiliated with the National Fraternal Congress of America~an organization representing more than 90 fraternal benefit societies in the United States and Canada-will celebrate and encourage volunteerism through the observance of National Fraternal Week, April 18 to 24,1999. can make a difference National Fraternal Week rallies volunteers across the nation to perform service projects and to honor volunteers. It is anticipated that member volunteers of fraternal benefit societies will together provide more than one million hours to community service projects during this week. But how will you respond? Take time out from your everyday routine. Find an organization or cause that is worthy of your support. Reach out to someone who needs your help. Join with fraternal volunteers to strengthen our community. Chances are great that your decision to join this worthy cause will not only help your community, but also make your life more rewarding and meaningful. The gift of your time, the gift of volunteerism, is contagious. As you give of yourself, others are inspired to give of themselves as well. The gift keeps on giving. Let's all pitch in to help others through volunteerism during National Fraternal Week, April 18 to 24. |typ|,| * • Helping our youth Many existing organizations in your community work with youth and know their needs. Contact one or more of these organizations to determine where your help is needed most: Association for Retarded Citizens□ Head Start u Big Brothers/Big Sisters□ Hospitals □ Boy Scouts/Girl Scouts□ "Make a Wish" Foundation □ Church Youth Groups□ Salvation Army □ Daycare Centers□ Superintendent of Schools Dept, of Children Services□ United Way D.A.R.E. (local police department) Foster Care [ YMCA/YWCA Community Activities • Donate canned goods and non-perishable items to your local food bank. • Supply personal hygiene kits to a homeless shelter. • Grab your tools and help out at a Habitat for Humanity homebuilding site. Youth Activities • Play a game or read a book to young patients at your local hospital’s children’s ward. • Invite young people to help clean up a forgotten cemetery. Senior Activities • Donate smoke detectors, deadbolt locks & carbon monoxide detectors to seniors in need. • Provide transportation for seniors to the store, church, etc. _____________________________y 4 William Penn life, April 1999
