I like that you framed this in a variety of ways: recurring, one-off, big or small... One of my (many) weird hang-ups is that I usually don't think it's volunteering unless it's recurring and over a long period of time, which is completely ridiculous, I know! We have so many ways to contribute our time and talent and they don't have to be set up like that. But I digress.
My best volunteer experience was through my son's elementary school. I was an "Art in Action" volunteer and it was a blast! The AIA volunteer got to pick a painting (reproduction posters of famous artworks) from the art closet, then research the artist, and, most crucially, come up with (and bring supplies for) an art project based off the painting for the kids to do. I loved this volunteer opportunity because I love to do research, I enjoy doing presentations, and I really got into coming up with cool, creative projects for the kids to do. Not only was it fun for me, but the kids always loved AIA day. They asked great questions and then would go all out on their art projects.
I felt very lucky to fill that volunteer role for that school year because it's a really tough one to get. Lots of parents (moms, mostly) wanted to do it because it ticked so many boxes for the volunteer: fun, doing good for the kids, creative, and interesting. I was really bummed when my year was up! It was a truly heartwarming experience.
------------------------------
Maria Mooshil
------------------------------
Original Message:
Sent: 04-12-2022 16:29
From: Brianne Haxton
Subject: Your best volunteer experience
What did your best volunteer experience look like? Was it large or small? Recurring? Done through work or your place of worship? With friends? Volunteer experiences can come in all shapes and sizes.
I've enjoyed volunteering the most when it's given me a chance to work with others. It can be hard to meet new people outside of work, but a shared task is a great icebreaker. I'm an extrovert, but after 2+ years of working at home, I find that friendly chatter doesn't come as naturally. Thankfully, bonding over the shared experience of sorting through canned goods or cleaning a garden provides a little cover for those rusty social skills!
For years, I worked alongside @Beth Power cooking and serving meals for guests at a local shelter. Our group of 5-6 volunteers looked forward to seeing each other every month. For me, that was fulfilling and fun. (@Quinn Drew, another honorable mention for best volunteer experience was the meal packing event where we both ended up in red hair nets!)
What about you? What was your best volunteer experience?
------------------------------
-Brianne
------------------------------