“Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world.” – Howard Zinn
Happy National Volunteer Month! April is the month to recognize the efforts of volunteers, encourage people to engage in their communities, and foster a commitment to giving back. Per the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau and AmeriCorps, there were over 75.7 million people in the United States who volunteered between September 2022 and September 2023. That’s representative of 28.3% of the U.S. population 16 years and older!
My Volunteering Experiences
This made me think of what volunteering opportunities I was able to participate in when I was an adolescent through adulthood. I have fond memories volunteering at the food bank, Habitat for Humanity, keeping the elderly company at nursing homes, helping at the animal shelter (which encouraged me to adopt dogs – I have two!), and providing basic healthcare in Nicaragua when I was in Physician Assistant school. These events cultivated a deeper appreciation for people, different cultures, animals, and the many blessings I have been provided. It also encouraged long-lasting friendships and prospects for effective teamwork. The skills I developed from each of these civic engagements aided in my growth as a person and as a medical provider.
(Nicaragua Mission Trip, circa 2012.)
Nowadays, most of my volunteering has been at the kids’ school at their “Book Nook” and on my son’s T-ball team by making sure the tadpoles aren’t swinging bats at each other ‘s heads (this is a dangerous endeavor, but someone’s gotta do it!). While my kids are still young, I hope my volunteering efforts at their events will influence and/or encourage them to give back and do the same when they are older. I want to teach them the benefits of volunteering: deeper connections with our community, reduced stress, developing new skills, building self-confidence, and being able to visualize the impact of our actions.
Volunteer Opportunities in Houston
Worried about time constraints? That’s the beautiful thing about volunteering – any time you’re willing to give can help; whether it’s a singular event, or maybe you’re ready for a long-term commitment. I wrote Howard Zinn’s at the top because it resonates with me. It is easy to feel as if your good deeds are inconsequential or what you’re contributing doesn’t make a difference, but any small act can make a change or at least initiate the transformation to progress.
Are you convinced and ready to serve your community? Please see below for links to websites to help guide you in your search for finding your passion.
- Volunteer Houston to search by interest and location.
- Volunteer Initiatives Program to learn about community service projects with the Department of Neighborhoods.
- Volunteer Organizations:
- Food Insecurity:
- Housing:
- Animals:
- Environment
While there may be age restrictions with certain volunteering organizations, you can include your younger kids in something as simple as a neighborhood clean-up. Make it a whole friends and family affair! Leave a comment and tell us about how you’ve volunteered in your community, or any ideas on how we can collectively give back. Lastly, THANK YOU TO ALL THE VOLUNTEERS FOR ALL YOU DO! No matter how big or small your act of service is, it is impactful, and you’re truly inspiring.
