Eric McDonnell volunteering at a Week of Caring event.
The last six weeks of the year is a time when people who feel blessed in life typically give back to their communities. In the spirit of the holidays, people volunteer at food banks or work with those who are less fortunate.
At United Way, we decided to ask our employees and community members to share, in their own words, a memorable volunteer experience they’ve had. Over the next few weeks, we will be sharing some of them here in the blog. Today’s post comes from Eric McDonnell, United Way’s Executive Vice President.
“Over the years, I have volunteered my time and “talent” (used loosely) to support non-profits in my community. I confess that I have not volunteered as much as I could or should. Like everyone else I can use the excuse of being ‘too busy.’
Last week I was reminded of why I must make the time to volunteer more of my time – simply put – “giving and receiving.” I spent the morning at a program called Boys Hope Girls Hope. This non-profit helps academically capable and motivated children-in-need meet their full potential and become men and women for others by providing value-centered, family-like homes, opportunities and education through college. We went to the boy’s home, cooked and served breakfast, and then played basketball with them.
It was so rewarding to spend time, talking and playing basketball with these promising boys. They were all high school students attending private schools with dreams of taking over the world! It was great to give my time, support and encouragement to the boys. AND I received such gratification from being with them. I was so inspired that I have committed to going back to tutor the boys.
So, I was reminded that volunteering is about giving and receiving…”
