Volunteering Grow Me Up As A Person
I have always considered myself a very propitious student. I have worked extremely hard to earn good grades, I have an intimate group of friends, and my teachers and I seem to have a strong mutual respect for each other. Although most would consider this stage of my life to be quite satisfactory and fulfilling; I felt discontented, like something was missing. In a way I felt inward-looking, and like my life was on repeat: Eat, Sleep, Study; maybe go out with friends once a week. Soon enough, I realized that this wasn’t a materialistic part of my life, but an emotional need to feel.
After being forced to join a volunteering group at the YMCA by my parents because they wanted me to start getting my hours, I finally discovered what seemed to be the missing piece to fill that vacancy. I was warmed and comforted by realizing what I was lacking: giving back. I started off by joining a small volunteer group at the YMCA called the Youth Development Program or more commonly known as “YLD”. Every second Friday, we would make care packages for the homeless and go out on Hastings street in Vancouver and hand them out. I discovered a feeling of self satisfaction that no other activity could bring to me. I wanted to do more, and soon those required 30 hours of community service turned into almost over 300 hours.
After YLD, I took the initiative to start helping around the community more and make a change. I have volunteered for the CIBC run for cancer event, City of Surrey, Current school Sr. Boys Soccer Team manager, and I even hosted my own fundraiser! An innovative idea I had was to organize a youth night event at the local YMCA; where for only $2 any youth could use the gym, play basketball, or go swimming and all proceeds went towards the Because I Am A Girl foundation. I ended up raising over $400; Lastly, I am now also proudly part of the Canadian Blood Services Ambassador program.
One of the many benefits of volunteering is the positive impact on the community. Volunteering has helped me get in touch with our community; even helping out with the littlest things can make a big significance to the lives of people in need. After dedicating my time as a volunteer for about 2 years, I can confidently say that this has not only helped the ones in need but has also helped me make new friends, improve my social skills, and expand my network. The entire experience with helping others has completely changed my perspective on things. It has impacted my life in more ways than one. I appreciate things more; I try not to be selfish and I don’t buy unnecessary items anymore just because. I have become more self-aware and that is one of the most important long-term traits I have manifested from giving back.
In the end, community service has truly made me grow as a person. Through my own experiences, I have witnessed not only the impact that a single volunteer can have on an organization, but the strong impact that volunteering can have on an individual. I know that I would not be the person I am now had I not made the decision to get involved in the community. Volunteering changed my life for the greater good. I am appreciative for the experiences I had, the people I met, and the things I have learned along the way.
