To follow up on last week’s Pique article on my volunteering award (see Pique, June 22), I have been encouraged to share some thoughts on the importance of volunteerism in general, as well as to me personally.
If our main economic engine in the Sea to Sky corridor is tourism, thanks in large part to our amazing natural environment, then it is we locals who prime the pump and keep that engine in great running condition. We get involved and stay energized by co-existing in healthy and vibrant communities where we can happily live, play and work. But how do we nourish and sustain ourselves in that regard?
The “secret sauce” in community-building must surely be the giving of one’s time, talent and resources for the betterment of our society, without expectation of direct gain or reward. Yet with that satisfaction of making a positive and lasting contribution through volunteering comes the personal benefit of a significant boost in mental health.
That “feel-good” sensation from higher serotonin and dopamine levels stayed with me long after my weekly low-income community law clinics. I also cannot count the number of lifelong friendships I have forged through my volunteer involvement over the last 30 years in Whistler. These deep relationships have enhanced my sense of belonging and have made me proud to be part of community-building.
The wonderful opportunities to share ideas and engage meaningfully with other volunteers have enhanced my feeling of self-worth. The professional and personal development associated with such activities is incalculable.
The “one-stop non-profit shops” of our local community foundations in the corridor are great umbrella organizations to find ways to volunteer, join or donate. There are countless exciting opportunities with our diverse sports and recreational associations, as well as in our schools.
Our local governments and ski area operators have many interesting programs for volunteers. There are frequent community fundraisers, and of course special events which attract a range of volunteer needs.
Start on a small project, join a committee, then get invited or apply to the non-profit’s board. You will be surrounding yourself with dynamic and engaged individuals, most of whom have very busy lives but know the priceless value of volunteering.
The oft-quoted Churchillian saying is worth repeating: “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”
