Years ago, I was the physical director at the West Seattle Branch of the Greater Seattle Association of YMCA’s.
I remember how dependent I was upon the active participation of volunteers to provide programming to our community. What struck me was how willing, if asked, both youth and adults were to become part of an almost exclusively volunteer implemented program.
I had volunteer coaches for the multitude of sport teams; volunteer administrative helpers that kept track of membership in programs, shifts for volunteers, equipment and supply needs. etc. I had volunteers who not only led physical fitness programs, but also volunteers who provided babysitting for the fitness participants.
I had a volunteer board, a physical education committee also staffed by those giving their time and expertise. We had volunteer teacher assistants for the swimming instructors, volunteers who worked in the “bag room” (didn’t have lockers in those days).
We had volunteers that would provide and cook meals for special occasions and celebratory events (swim team, fitness class graduations). In fact, I remember well the volunteer who led our Triple B program (Breakfast, Bible and Basketball).
My wife and I are regular blood donors. Guess what – the Puget Sound Blood Center needs volunteers. The ones I saw were administrative (check-in and out) and “snack providers” after the “blood letting.” They need you!
During part of my time volunteering in Central America I took Spanish lessons at the Peter Kirk Community Center in Kirkland. Community centers have a constant need of volunteers to teach, coordinate, and provide services to everyone from youth to seniors. Languages, arts and crafts, socialization, etc. Are you tired yet? Okay, one more.
The Bellevue YWCA accepts used women’s business suits and working clothing, which they provide to women needing such for the work environment.
Giving clothes is not the same as giving time, but valuable nonetheless. Imagine a young woman who has the need and the opportunity to work to provide for her family, but can’t afford the apparel. You can make that difference.
Volunteering provides such personal satisfaction. More so, I think, than in a paid position. Dare you expose your heart and conviction to helping others?
In our next column we will talk about how to examine some of your strengths and how to evaluate volunteer opportunities for fit and comfort – so that volunteering becomes a joy not a job. See you next time!
Check out the following opportunities – just suggestions:
www.seattleymca.org – you can search for applicable locations (branches)
www.ywcaworks.org – services oriented toward women – numerous branches
www.psbc.org – giving blood is a good idea – nearest location is in Bellevue
www.kirklandwa.gov – Look for Peter Kirk Community Center or North Kirkland Community Center
Bill LaMarche is a 36 year Kirkland resident, retired, and active community, national and international volunteer. Bill’s prior career focused upon coaching and mentoring profit and nonprofit executives and company/organizational participants in professional development, leadership, organizational alignment and performance management, including planning for volunteer service as part of existing company/organizational culture. Send in suggested volunteer opportunities to the Kirkland Reporter, attn: Bill LaMarche, at letters@kirklandreporter.com
