Have you ever considered that, while people find time to volunteer with others or within organizations, they may also need socialization just as much as those they support? In our organization, we have over two hundred volunteers, many of whom operate independently in the community. This often means they do not have regular opportunities to engage with staff or their peers.
At our agency, we strive to create opportunities for our volunteers to connect with one another and learn about the work others are doing with their clients or in their respective spaces.
For over a year now, the RSVP Program has been meeting regularly on the last Thursday of the month for a volunteer social. Attendance is not mandatory, but those who come regularly have become strong supporters of one another and delight in each other’s accomplishments. They also provide encouragement to each other, as we all struggle from time to time. Often new volunteers are encouraged to attend, as it is a nice way to introduce all the variety of initiatives AOASCC had, and to hear about it from others. Sometimes we just talk about life, and sometimes we share this time with a presenter.
At least semi-annually, if not more frequently, programs have appreciation events to ensure that volunteers understand that we could not do any of these support programs without them. On July 3rd, we held an event for the RSVP and Chaperone Volunteers. The Agency provided pizza and salad, and the volunteers brought beverages and dessert, and boy, did they bring it!
There were door prizes, and everyone took a moment to share their contributions to the community and the various volunteer programs they support. From assisting at the Hamden Senior Center to serving as Medical Chaperones, individuals discussed their motivations for volunteering and how rewarding it is for them.
One volunteer shared, “We may someday need these supports ourselves, so we might as well pay it forward.”
The pictures from the event capture the spirit and enjoyment of everyone and their efforts! If you would like to learn more contact, Cherrie Strucaly at 203.752.3059 ext. 2907 or email her at cstrucaly@aoascc.org.
Together, many hands make light work.