When people are in need, my hand is often raised. Especially, wherever I see I can contribute and make a difference. I grew up reading super hero comic books—Superman, Batman, Green Lantern, Captain Marvel, Wonder Woman, Captain America, Hulk, Spiderman—you name it! Maybe this is where it all started. I collected them all. I believe this is my way of living into what they represented to me in my childhood—good, doing what’s right and helping others. Now, I am not claiming to be perfect or better—to the contrary. I have learned to respect there is always someone I can learn from and look up to. I am who I am and I am realizing why because of my experiences.
I also have learned that volunteering has allowed me to exercise my leadership muscles—grow my skills. It requires me to flex my leadership style more. Motivations are different often times than in the workplace. People are not necessarily looking for their volunteer commitment(s) to meet their basic needs like their career. The commitment level is different for some. As a leader it becomes critical for me to know each person giving the gift of their time and determine what motivates them. Why are they here? So, to lead volunteers is like swimming, I use my muscles/skills differently. These experiences have helped take me to the next level. I now know the subtle difference between arrogance and pride. I am proud of the people I have served in the past and those I serve with today.
I have been in volunteer service since I was 8 years old and my parents gave me my Cub Scout Handbook (Wolf Book) for my 8th Birthday. I remember the day well, coming home from school after finishing a day in Mrs. Berry’s second grade class and found what started my volunteerism journey. I remained in scouting and eventually became an Eagle Scout. Scouting is my foundation. I have learned to take the good that I can apply that to my life from each of my volunteer experiences—not everything—just those that are relevant for me in my life. I learned the value of helping others and giving back to my community.
My involvement continued through college where I helped revive the struggling Nu Kappa chapter of Alpha Phi Omega from 5 members to over 40 within 2 years while also serving as the community Chairperson for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Since then I have been involved in many other volunteer organizations. And, most would perhaps say I am not one to sit on the sidelines. I take my commitments seriously.
I have become more humbled now by the volunteer experiences I have had and the trust others placed in me. Volunteering allows me to get involved, try new things, share my strengths and grow as a leader. As a leader within the organizations I serve, my role has at times been narrow and volunteering allows me to continually hone my skills and keep/gain fresh and innovative perspectives.
So, honestly, for me it has not all been about giving back. As a volunteer with the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD) I was local President and served as a National Advisor, coaching and mentoring leaders across the country. Volunteering has allowed me to serve my profession and become a part of making lasting change.
ASTD has given me the opportunity to literally help shape our industry. The workplace learning and performance (WLP) field formerly training, required a body of knowledge to become recognized as a profession. Yes, I got involved. I was on the team that outlined the body of knowledge, wrote exam questions, created the scoring rubrics for the work product submissions and scored work product submissions for the Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP). Talk about leaving a legacy and making a difference. The CPLP has become accepted as the standard, sort of like the Bar for Attorneys, the CPA for Accountants or SPHR for Human Resources. It is a true privilege and distinct honor.
So, through volunteering I am able to escape the “tunnel vision” that can often be created by the workplace. My innovative juices flow because I know change is possible. By getting involved and playing full out, I invite anyone reading this to explore organizations that resonates with their passion. As in life, balance is important. It helps my perspective.
In an effort to keep me balanced, I have passions in various areas of my life. As a result I have a sense of greater personal fulfillment and move forward. It is interesting how one experience draws on another.
My skills and experience are the gifts I contribute. Volunteering helps me discover that and refine them. I absolutely love what I do and sharing it with others by helping people and organizations grow. The people I meet as colleagues and friends make it worth it. The trust I build within myself and the organizations I serve from my new found confidence makes me a better performer on the teams I play on and lead. These rewards last a lifetime.
Volunteering is my way to pay forward the experiences I had and the gifts others have given me, to help others.
