Statements I have heard numerous times in my adult life: “I want to volunteer somewhere. I want to help. I want to get involved. I just don’t know where to do it.” These statements are often followed by the question, “Where should I go?” This is music to my ears. I could talk about this all day long and there is no shortage of subject matter when it comes to community engagement opportunities in Hamilton County. Volunteering & community engagement is not a selfless act and that is OKAY! I strongly encourage others to find volunteer positions in areas where there is self-interest. Most folks are busy with work and family obligations. Squeezing volunteer hours into an already hectic schedule can be quite difficult. You are doing yourself and the organization and its members a great service if you enjoy what you do with that time.
Do you enjoy working with students but do not have a lot of time to give? Offer to flip pancakes at The Rock for Student Impact in Westfield! Maybe you have always felt drawn to working with older adults or you are an older adult yourself who would like to socialize more, while giving back. Shepherd Center of Hamilton County’s Community Caring Volunteers help make resources available to our seniors 55 and older. Are you a natural-born mentor? Hamilton County Youth Assistance, which is proactive in assisting the healthy development of Hamilton County youth, now offers programming in SIX communities across our county! Girls on the Run Central Indiana provides an opportunity for physical activity while mentoring pre-teens girls to build confidence, self-respect and respect for others. If your interest is in a broader look at nonprofit opportunities, county-wide, there is much to learn from the Hamilton County Community Foundation.
These are just a few of the many nonprofit organizations available to you and all residents in Hamilton County. There are other ways to get involved in community service through the schools, churches, and your city or town’s events programming. I challenge you to think about your interests, consider what time you may have available to help others, and then meet with like-minded folks who can direct you in finding a meaningful way to give back while serving your community.
HAMILTON CONNECTION
Hamilton County Leadership Academy (HCLA) and Invest Hamilton County have launched a new community ambassador program. The partnership, called HAMILTON CONNECTION will highlight the personal stories of HCLA alumni and allow those Connectors to help personalize the things that make Hamilton County a great place to live, work, learn, and thrive. Meet the Hamilton Connectors HERE.
