A-SPAN Volunteer Heather Pritchett has been teaching jewelry making to A-SPAN clients for about a year and a half. Heather’s class started because she wanted to share her hobby that she enjoyed doing with those in need in the community. Heather became familiar with A-SPAN when she was going through the Leadership Arlington program (Class of 2016) and took a tour of the Homeless Services Center.
By Lucinda Robb
My three kids and I love volunteering together. For me it is a chance to model my values in front of my children, while for them helping others makes them feel useful and grown up.
Did you know one in three women and one in four men experience violence in their relationship? In support of Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) this October, Doorways wants to highlight our team of Domestic Violence Safehouse Hotline/Coverage Volunteers who inspire us every day with their passion, energy, and commitment to creating real change in our community and creating a safe space for survivors.
By Beth Wenger, Program Director for KEEN Greater DC-Baltimore
You’re busy. I get it. Time is our most precious commodity, and it’s fleeting. That’s scary. The thought of volunteering some—or more--of that time can seem even scarier. It conjures up a whole bunch of “what ifs,” such as: What if I lose all my me time? What if I don’t like it? What if what I do doesn’t make a difference? What if I miss some other opportunity?
Kim Gantt has dedicated her time and enthusiasm to the mission of the Leukemia Lymphoma Society (LLS) for over a decade. She began her volunteer journey as the captain of her company’s Light the Night team, leading her colleagues in their fight against blood cancers. After taking part in her first event, Kim was moved by her experience and inspired by the dedication of her community to the service of others. Now, over 14 years later, Kim continues to inspire those around her by volunteering her time and expertise to LLS events and campaigns throughout the year.
Leveraging Volunteer Opportunities for Career Growth
Todays professionals face reductions in mid-level career opportunities due in part to globalization and the proliferation of technology. Industry consolidation means fewer companies which leads to less growth and promotional opportunities for the career-minded professional. As you think about the next promotion, take a look at the opportunities that can set you apart from your colleagues or the Company’s new hire.
by Heather Garlich
Last year 44,000 people died by suicide, making it our nation’s 10th leading cause of death. Furthermore, suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death in youth ages 10-24.
In honor of Suicide Awareness Month this September, a volunteer from local nonprofit, PRS, shares her testimony of volunteering on their CrisisLink hotline:
By Lisa Fikes, Director of Volunteer Arlington
“Matching” is everywhere! Whether singing the infamous song from “Fiddler on the Roof”, logging into “Match.com”, or driving your kids to the daily soccer match, we hear this word a lot in our culture. It is interesting to me that in the references just mentioned, the word can be used to suggest either connection or competition.
Click here to view more photos from the event.
By Lisa Fikes, Director of Volunteer Arlington
On Tuesday, July 25, 2017, more than 200 Arlingtonians came together to celebrate the spirit of volunteerism!
