National Volunteer Week is April 12-18, 2015 – a great time to take action and discover opportunities to give back and make a difference in your community. During National Volunteer Week, the Valparaiso Family YMCA joins the nation in encouraging individuals to seek ways to give back, while honoring those who dedicate themselves to helping strengthen communities.
“At the Y, volunteers are a critical part of how we transform lives through programs and services. We see firsthand how giving back impacts not only the community, but the volunteers involved,” said Jodi Jackson, Volunteer Coordinator for the Valparaiso Family YMCA. “In fact, a recent Gallup poll showed that nine out of 10 people said they receive an emotional boost from doing kind things for other people. When activated, that kind of emotional boost from contributing to the community goes from something you do to a part of who you are.”
As one of the leading nonprofits and volunteer organizations in the country, the Y offers individuals and families opportunities to volunteer in ways that let them connect and develop meaningful relationships, all while making an impact in communities they care about. Here in Valparaiso the Y’s volunteers helped with rebuilding ValPLAYso, participated in making our race, Ringing in Spring the most successful ever and every year they help clean our Y top to bottom during our shutdown week. Many more opportunities exist for others to help make a difference.
National Volunteer Week is a great time to get involved and give back. Here are four ways individuals can take an active role at the Y and in their community:
1. Help with Y fundraising efforts to ensure those in need can access essential programs and services.
2. Get involved with our Green Thumb gardening project for Child Care, helping children understand fresh vegetables and herbs from seed to harvest.
3. Coach a sports team, teach a class or ask Y staff about other ways to get involved with a program of interest.
4. Invite friends and neighbors to join you in giving back to the community.
To learn more about volunteer opportunities at the Valparaiso Family YMCA contact Jodi Jackson, jjackson@valpoymca.org.