Do you remember your first volunteering experience?
Ah yes, my first volunteering experience! I was in college and had agreed to read to elementary students. I figured it would be an easy thing to put on my resume and what a surprise I was in for. Anyone who has kids or has ever been in contact with children knows that they say whatever is on their mind, whenever it is on their mind. Needless to say, trying to get through an entire book was challenging but, in the end, the relationships I had built with the kids were worth all the interruptions, random questions, and endless stories about what their parents did and did not do. The difference I made not only on the students and teacher, but on myself, changed my perspective on volunteering, and I knew I had to do it again and again!
Is there a non-profit or cause that you particularly care about?
I’m very passionate about any and all animal shelters. Having two rescue dogs of my own, I personally know how much of an impact these organizations can make, both for the rescued and the rescuer! We are lucky in Austin to have numerous shelters who are working around the clock to find ‘furrever homes’ for many abandoned animals. They are always in need or more support, so it is great to be able to lend a hand … and it usually includes playing with adorable puppies and kittens!
What has been your most positive experience with Team Arm to date?
There have been a lot of fun and impactful experiences with Team Arm, but my most memorable one was an onsite volunteering event we did last December. We partnered with the Ghisallo Cycling Initiative, who have helped over 29,000 Austin-area youth with bicycles and classes. We had over 100 volunteers show up in the Austin office parking lot to help build bikes. It was amazing to see so many people turn up for such a great cause, especially around the holiday time! It reminded me of just how great belonging to the Austin office is!
Do you have any words of advice for someone who has not volunteered before and isn’t sure where to start?
Just do it! We are so fortunate at Arm to have the opportunity not only to volunteer, but to also get paid to do something that helps so many people. With so many different causes to support, everyone can find something that they are passionate about. Volunteering is also a cool activity to do with your team! Your local Team Arm Champions are a great source of knowledge for ways to get involved in your area… and they are just fun to talk to in general.