Have you ever been asked,
Why Do You Volunteer?
"I've been provided for a lot in my life - Provided for by God, my family, my community, and many specific individuals. A life of meaning isn't about what we get, but what we give while we're here. Because of this, I'm always grateful for the opportunities to volunteer and give back. It's a win-win. Legitimate needs are met and it is personally fulfilling!-Ryan G.
"I volunteer because enjoy the opportunity to give back to the community. Knowing that a few hours of my time can have a world of impact on local people and organizations makes each moment meaningful. I began volunteering back in middle school and high school delivering "Meals on Wheels" with my father. The way each meal recipient would remember me and share their appreciation made me feel as though I was truly making a difference. Since then, I have continued to seek out opportunities to give back because it feels incredibly fulfilling to devote my time to something that might put a smile on someone else's face."-Claire T.
"I volunteer because I want the best for all the people living here, especially those who are historically undeserved and overlooked."-Christine M.
"I volunteer because as a young boy living in the south end of Albany, organizations like the Boys and Girls Club keep me and many of my friends on a good path forward. The club was a safe harbor for us and provided direction and opportunity to aspire for a better future. I was fortunate and I want to help provide those in need, especially our youth, with the same opportunity that I had."-John K.
"I volunteer because I want to support a cause that I care about. I care about my community and want to make a difference. This is why I support the United Way of the Greater Capital Region. The United Way represents my community."-Terry H.
"I believe it is a part of our civic duty to give back and pour into our communities where we can. Whether it's been joining the PTA to make sure our children have tools necessary for their success or walking to raise money to fight cancer because it's directly impacted myself and my family or collecting bottles to give to someone else to makes their ends meet, these are the things that truly make me happy. I couldn't imagine my life being any other way."-Zoppanya F.
"Growing up in a middle class family, I was very fortunate to attend a private girl's high school (Academy of the Holy Names) founded on its mission to education and service to others. Throughout my professional career, I worked with many volunteers who became my mentors, and guided me toward organizations that I came to realize had meaning to me; where their mission was to serve children, foster education and give back to the community. I volunteer in honor of my mentors; and for the learning experience. Hopefully I will enhance someone's life or an organization, with a skill or knowledge that I have the ability to share. The Community where I live, work and raised our family is extremely important to me; and I believe the organizations within my community are the social fabric for our future; keeping families together, enriching our children, building knowledge and changing lives!" Regina L.
"I volunteer because I don't want to take advantage of my privileges. When countless people struggle to make ends meet, to pay for the basic necessities I take for granted, I owe it to them to help in any way I'm able. Even if it's just collecting cans for the food pantry, I know I can make a difference, and that we can all live united."-Tom S.
"I volunteer because I want to leave this place in better shape than when I entered."-Mike G.
"I volunteer because it's vital to be a responsible citizen. We all know what it's like to receive help when we need it and it's important to pay it forward to another. Kindness is the connecting link in the chain of humanity."-Kelsey A.
"The food providers have become a family to me. That's why I help out at pantries, summer lunch, etc."-Larry L.
