Volunteering makes us feel good. And getting to meet and learn about other people is a nice perk. But people volunteer for a lot of different reasons that are unique and personal.
I could list some of these reasons, but why not let volunteers speak for themselves? Here are some darned good reasons from UCT members who are longtime volunteers.
Randy Young, UCT Board President
“I volunteer because I was raised in a culture where helping family, friends, neighbors and those less fortunate was a way of life. It still is. Volunteers make a difference and sometimes save lives. I know that from personal experience. If it weren’t for people like those who volunteer for the American Red Cross I might not be here.”
Randy volunteers for organizations like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Special Olympics, Miracle League, and The ARC.
Tony Szymczak, Community Outreach Manager
“I’ve supported the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio for five years. I started because, outside of community service, I thought volunteering would be a good way to network with like-minded people in a new city. The ‘House’ is still where I spend almost all of my volunteer time. I’ve met some of my best friends through volunteering there.”
Tony is a Ronald McDonald House board member and president of RCMH’s Red Shoe Society.
Keith Ward, Community Outreach Manager
“For me volunteering is just the right thing to do. I know what I’m doing is helping someone else and how important that is. It’s a very personal experience since I tend to support charities and causes that have helped people I know and care about.”
Keith volunteers primarily for programs that help people with intellectual disabilities and cancer.
Lori Rutledge, Member
“I’ve been volunteering since I was six years old in the Blue Birds. I remember my father saying, ‘No matter how difficult your life might be there’s always someone less fortunate than you. No matter where you are in life, always do what you can for someone in need, or just help your neighbors.’ I didn’t understand what he meant until I got older. Now I realize how just a little of my time can mean the world to other people.”
Lori volunteers to help her neighbors year-round by planting flowers, raking leaves, shoveling snow, and shuttling neighborhood kids to ball games and other athletic events.
Bernie Regenbogen, Member
“I see volunteering as a social responsibility. It’s something that benefits the giver and receiver equally. We all have different strengths and interests. For me it’s youth. Today’s young people will someday be responsible for this planet. If we don’t equip them properly now, if we don’t help them overcome their obstacles today, what will the world be like for future generations?”
Bernie supports P.R.O. Kids, which offers positive recreational opportunities for kids to promote self-esteem, healthy growth, increased knowledge and personal development.
Nicole Watson, Member
“I started volunteering in high school and have been doing it ever since. I enjoy giving back to my community and helping others. It’s allowed me to make a difference, and I’ve met a lot of people with similar passions along the way. For me volunteering is important and will always be a big part of my life.”
Nicole supports causes and organizations like Operation Feed, United Way of Central Ohio, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, the American Heart Association and Toys for Tots.
Want to get started volunteering, but aren’t quite sure how? Contact UCT today!
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