You may not carry the label of ‘Volunteer’, but you’ve always been one.
Have you ever signed up to make hot meals for your sick neighbor? Given lessons in math to the kid round the block?
Dusted the old tomes in the community center library?
Joined an awareness march downtown?
The majority of us voluntarily do things to support people and causes we care about in both big and small ways. We may not top the achievement charts or receive trophies for this work, but we do what we can, when we can.
“Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart.” – Elizabeth Andrew
We celebrate all of you this month for your kindness. Keep doing and finding the time and spirit to bring light and hope into other’s lives and critical social issues. As our advocates always say, volunteering has its own rich rewards. It is deeply satisfying, helps connect with the community, meet inspiring people, boost self-confidence, grow as a person and improves skill sets. Giving helps cope better with our own lives, and the happiness generated is reflected back on us in so many ways.
In recognition of National Volunteer Month, we asked some Ashiyanaa volunteers why they do what they do for us everyday. Here’s what they said:
“The friend who originally suggested that I volunteer with Ashiyanaa thought I could be helpful to the organization. Having now worked there for the last 3 years, I realize that it is Ashiyanaa that has been helpful to me. It has given me a renewed sense of purpose and community. Being able to help women in need is tremendously fulfilling.”
“I have been volunteering with Ashiyanaa for almost 6 years. I love being part of this caring organization and use my skills to help our clients. It is so rewarding to see these women free themselves from their abusive pasts, get in touch with their strength and begin to thrive. It has also been very heartwarming to see how clients support each other in our support groups.”
“I have been volunteering with ASHA for Women, now Ashiyanaa, for the last 8 years. As a client advocate, I am able to give back to our community by helping South Asians impacted by domestic violence. My belief is reaffirmed by personal experience that every person has a unique gift to present to the world when given the chance!”
The reality is that Ashiyanaa has been able to touch the lives of so many due to its dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly and use their expertise to help others. They are the lifeblood, form the structure and drive the mission of Ashiyanaa.
Volunteers are all of us.
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” — Mahatma Gandhi
If you’d like to join us, check out our volunteer page and fill out our volunteer interest form so we can pair you with the right opportunity.
Reach out to us at volunteercoordinator@ashiyanaa.org with any questions.
