What inspires you to volunteer your time?
I am inspired to volunteer for the NEC after starting as a Work Study student during the semester and feeling welcomed with open arms into their organizational community. After the semester ended I decided to volunteer during the summer. The NEC is home to a solid group of people who care about our local and global environment, with a motivation to cultivate both self and group change and growth. During the COVID-19 crisis and the growing social and racial unrest, I have seen how the NEC has made space and taken action, adapting in a humble and beautiful way. What an honor it is to be part of a team so accountable to one another and the community!
What project are you working on at the NEC?
During the summer I have dipped my toes into a few NEC projects including Trash-a-Thon and planning for other upcoming fundraisers. I have also supported by processing donations that come into the office by our generous donors. One of the projects I have been happy to contribute to is the NEC social media presence, crafting and sharing our Mindful Monday posts – advice, art, and resources for navigating the current environmental, social, and political climate with grace and ease.
What words of advice do you have for people interested in volunteering at a local nonprofit?
If you’re interested in volunteering at a local nonprofit, my biggest piece of advice would be to get to know the organizational community! One of the biggest gifts I’ve received at the NEC is being present at most of their weekly and monthly staff meetings. Even if there are weeks where I haven’t been able to be fully involved, staying connected to the people making the magic happen keeps me motivated, in the loop, and ready to engage when the time comes for me to lend a hand. Every nonprofit is different, and the people who work behind the scenes shape how the organization thrives. Knowing those people and sharing yourself and your experiences helps create a dynamic, diverse, and expansive environment, leading to work that is in full integrity.