Why I volunteer

Volunteering has been an important aspect of my life for a long time.  In high school, I joined organizations such as Students Against Drunk Driving and Big Brothers / Big Sisters.  When I got to college, I spent many hours involved with the Big Brothers / Big Sisters program (from being a mentor to coordinating the program).  I also participated in several volunteer and community service projects from the United Way's Day of Caring to helping out at the local nursery school.  Once I began teaching, it became more difficult to find time for volunteering, but I still took every chance I could get.  Staying involved with my church, scout groups, and local recreation program has helped me to give back to the community I grew up in.  As a teacher, I have always tried to stress the importance of volunteering and giving back to my students.

While at a service-learning conference I attended as a college student in Rhode Island, I learned a lot about myself and why I choose to volunteer.

I volunteer for two reasons.  One, service to others makes a difference.  Without volunteer ambulances and fire departments, small towns would struggle to provide these services to their citizens.  Without mentors, children at risk would have a difficult time making the right choices.  Without organizations like the American Red Cross and the American Cancer Society to which people can donate time, money, and other forms of support, our medical fields would not be able to make the advancements they do.  If volunteering my time will make a difference in someone's life, even in some small way, then I can be a part of (excuse the cliche) "making the world a better place." 

The second reason I volunteer is because it is a valuable exchange.  When I spend time in service to others, I often gain just as much as I give.  Volunteering at a local soup kitchen opened my eyes to what life can be like for those who are less fortunate than me.  It made me appreciate the clothes on my back, the roof over my head, and the meal I eat every night.  Serving as a mentor to young kids has brought me joy, laughter, and an appreciation to the mentors I have had in my own life.  It helps me put things into perspective and strive to be a better teacher.

I chose "A Broader View" (the volunteer organization that I am working with to plan my project in Honduras) for the very reasons I volunteer.  The organization strives to make a difference in the lives of people around the world, and it provides a valuable cultural exchange.  It is my hope that I will return from my trip with a feeling that I have made a positive impact on the lives of children in Honduras, with a greater understanding of the Spanish culture, and with a broader view of the world.

If you are interested in helping me with this project, please consider making a donation on my project page.  To write a check or for information on tax-deductible donations, please send me an e-mail (robsanford89@yahoo.com).