Admit it, when considering a volunteer opportunity we often ask, “What’s in it for me?” Its OK, I won’t tell anyone that we had this conversation.

“I want to make sure that the time and money I give is used well – outcomes you say, make a difference.” I agree. But, let’s take a different track this time, one less statistical and focus upon human values – consider compassion, righting a wrong, helping those who literally can’t help themselves, stewardship of our time and resources.

My own daughter said: “We get to the end of our life and have spent all our time working, getting ahead, getting ‘things’ telling ourselves there’s just not enough time and we miss out on the really important stuff. It reminds me of the concept some inspirational speeches are based on: ‘the dash.’ It is the space between your birth and death and what you do with it.” All of a sudden we may want to look once again at our priorities.

So, what’s in it for me? Here are some observations from several recent interviews I’ve had with volunteers: A driver transporting adults and kids to medical appointments, social occasions, schools etc.: “They ask why I’m so happy doing such a menial task. Menial I say, these are highlights of my day! I now have a chance to give back, thank you. All the kids call me grandpa. I like it as I don’t have grandkids of my own. In a sense, they are my grandkids. I wouldn’t trade this opportunity.”

A crossing guard near an elementary school: “I now know most of the kids in the neighborhood and have the opportunity to do a small part in protecting them as they go to school. I’ve taught them some respect for safety and caring for each other and they certainly have taught me patience and tolerance.”

An instructor in English as a Second Language program: “One of my students just took a test for a work opportunity and was accepted. He had tried several times before but struggled with English. He told me how much I had helped him and how grateful he was. But, I’m not a teacher I said, just a helper. “No he said – you made it possible for me to get a job.”

A mother and daughter bring pets to a retirement home and share with those living there: “I wanted to volunteer – with my daughter. During one of our visits a lady we visited asked my daughter if she ever “looked down on anyone.” My 10 year old daughter said: “I guess yes – my mom told me that the

only time you look down on someone is when you extend a hand and help them get up.” My daughter?