Why do I volunteer?

I know my mother would never understand why I volunteer and why I am involved with so many different organizations? She would wonder what's in it for me and what does it have to do with real estate.

I have volunteered for as long as I can remember in my adult life. I get back much more than I give. Over the years, I have met so many giving, interesting, hardworking people in our community. Individuals who are struggling to find their way through the world like all of us, but who find it in themselves to give time and sometimes money to make a difference.

Some wonder if there is a future with all the negative press we read about climate change, homelessness, hunger, poverty, cruelty, anger and greed. All I know is I'm not the kind of person to sit around and wait as if a giant axe is hanging over my head. All I know how to do is get up everyday, put one foot in front of the other and try to make a difference in my part of the world. I'm not going to solve all the world's problems, but I hope that with my friends we can make a difference in someone's life.

I am particularly interested in senior's issues, perhaps because selfishly I want there to be a kinder, gentler, more humane world for seniors. Not all seniors are sitting on a big pile of money. Many are struggling in poverty and illness. I will do what I can to be part of the solution and not part of the problem.

Yes, occasionally I benefit in my business because I have met someone who wants to buy or sell a house, but I can tell you I get back much more than can be monetized. Don't join an organization if your first goal is to make money from it. Most people get involved because something has happened to them personally or someone they know and they want to be a part of something to raise money or many changes. No matter your reason, it has to be genuine.

If you are worried about being taken advantage of with your time or your emotions you do have to learn when to say the magic word, NO, when it is more than you want to do. You can spend any amount of time volunteering, whatever fits your life, an hour an month or an hour a week, whatever is best for you. It doesn't matter your age. Young or old, we all have something to give.

Volunteering can change your life. If you're lonely, you will make life-long friends. If you are struggling, you will be lifted up by someone who needs more than you.

#volunteer #gettinginvolved #altruism #beingagoodcitizen #makingchanges #helpingsomeoneinneed