This morning as I was researching the latest news on community service to share with the AmeriCorps VISTAs in the field I stumbled upon this article “Youth try their hands at community service.” On the surface, the article is a standard rendition of youth engagement, but it got me to thinking about why I do what I do. For those of you who are not aware, I am an AmeriCorps VISTA Leader.
AmeriCorps VISTA leaders support and help coordinate larger VISTA projects and/or regions, involving at least six VISTA members, in their efforts to address the needs of low-income communities. Leaders serve as recruiters, coordinators, trainers, mentors and resource providers who strengthen the capacity of VISTA members, VISTA projects, and community members. Just as VISTA members work to expand and build the capacity of community projects, leaders work to expand and build the capacity of individual VISTA members and their respective project sites.
My project site or host site is NeighborWorks America, here in the DC office. I moved here with two week notice from Buffalo New York. A huge leap on many levels, one I took without hesitation. But why? Why would I pack up my apartment, dog, and boyfriend and moved 6 hours away from my family and friends?
That is a really good question!
Thinking about it this morning, I love what I do. I love impacting someone’s day with my actions, no matter how small. I love that I have the chance to connect with over 150 people (VISTAs) stationed all over the country. They truly are amazing people, and I am so lucky to have this opportunity.
Why do I choose to volunteer? – I volunteer because I want to leave a legacy, even if it’s in only one person’s memory, I want to make a difference.
How about you?
