The Other Side of Volunteering
When we think of volunteering, we usually consider all the “good” that time spent helping will do. Packing food boxes for families in need, manning a crosswalk near an elementary school to keep kids safe, and cleaning up a community garden are just a few opportunities that allow us to do our part for the greater good.
What we don’t always consider when we think of charitable organizations and their missions are the volunteers themselves, and what they receive from volunteering. While many of us will volunteer and put in a few hours or days when a specific need arises, such as refereeing peewee soccer, we, or our families, benefit from the volunteer tasks. Typically, after a week or a month of a sports season, we are free to enjoy our spare time again.
But what about the people who commit to ongoing volunteer opportunities? What makes these individuals continue to give of themselves, year after year, with no finish date in sight? With no thoughts of “One more week of this extra work then I’m done!”
We recently spoke with several PREPARES volunteer companions who are approaching their ten-year anniversaries with the ministry. They have been on board since the initiative was first launched in their parishes, figuring out what works best, how often to meet — both as teams of companions and with their mothers — and continually familiarizing themselves with the programs and support available to parents and children in the community.
“I enjoy it,” explained one companion. I come from a big family, and I just get such joy from helping a family with their babies. When we first meet, they are usually unsure about the future—sometimes even afraid—and they are so thankful for someone to walk the journey with them. I become almost family to them. Over the years, many of the children have referred to me as auntie, and when we sometimes meet in a grocery store, the kids clamor to carry my things and help me load up my car. I get joy from being a part of their lives.”
Another companion offered, “For me, it’s my chance to put boots on the ground and do something concrete that I believe in. Human life is truly sacred, and walking with mothers as they raise their precious children allows me to live out my commitment to Life.”
A third explained how her fellow companions have become dear friends. “There is a real sense of camaraderie. God has put us here for a reason, and these are my sisters. We are doing His work. As we’ve worked together, we’ve become closer and I now reach out to them for personal support, not just suggestions for helping my families.”
All the women agreed that they feel like they are answering a call and that the time spent with their families provides them with a feeling that’s hard to describe. One woman suggested, “That feeling used to be called a “warm fuzzy”. I think that seems a little trite these days. It’s more of a glow inside, knowing that I’ve given of myself and my time and that it’s made a difference for someone. It’s knowing I’m doing God’s work.”
Want to help? Catholic Charities has multiple volunteer program opportunities to fit just nearly anyone’s schedule. Click here to learn how you can get involved!
