GOLincolnGO

Make an impact.

“I always wondered why somebody didn’t do something about that. Then I realized I was somebody.”
—Lily Tomlin

We had our first meeting last night to discuss volunteer recruitment and training for Celebrate Lincoln. I’m always amazed at how much volunteer manpower is devoted to the festival and the organization. Speaking from personal experience, I can certainly understand the times when volunteerism seems to fall by the wayside. I think no one will notice if I’m not there or that the few hours I devote a week don’t really matter to anyone else. Besides, when am I going to watch the Bachelor?! In a busy life, I contemplate whether my volunteer hours should make the cut. Over and over again, I’m reminded why they should.

“If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up people together to collect wood and don’t assign them tasks and work, but rather teach them to long for the endless immensity of the sea.”
— Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Often, what I spend my time doing shows me what I am most passionate about:

• I like being social – I’m passionate about building my community, my friends and meeting people.
• I like to travel – I’m passionate about seeing the world.
• I’m learning to cook – I’m passionate about not eating Mac ‘n Cheese for the rest of my life.
• I volunteer for the Red Cross – I’m passionate about offering immediate help to people who need it.

“The highest reward for a person’s work is not what they get for it, but what they become because of it.”

— John Ruskin

I’m a big believer in having fun. Sure, sometimes we have to do things we don’t want to, but volunteering shouldn’t be one of them. If you’re not having fun, don’t do it. A glass-half-empty attitude can spread like wildfire. Find something that you like to do, that you’re good at or that you want to learn and run with it! I’ve met some of the most amazing people through volunteering and they truly inspire me. As you work toward a common goal, volunteering provides an easy way to make new friends, uncover hidden skills and talents, increase your self-confidence, and have fun while making a difference in our world. As I’ve posted before, if you ever need any assistance with this or suggestions on where you fit, please, let me know! I’d be glad to help.

“Never doubt that a small group of committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
—Margaret Mead

Now go make it happen!

Frances