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Thanking Our Helpers on National Volunteer Week
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Recently, I have been thinking about the quote from Mr. Rogers- “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” Looking for helpers is one way that I have found hope despite the issues and tragedies that have affected our local community and nation. As the Special Events and Volunteer Coordinator, my role allows me to do just that.
Looking around Damar’s campus, you will quickly see a team of helpers. Like all of us, Damar employees are surrounded by difficult challenges, yet they support our children and adults with fierce dedication and encouragement day after day. If someone needs help, they are the first to drop whatever they are doing and step in. Their dedication and resiliency give me hope for better futures for those within our reach.
Our many dedicated volunteers are at the heart of the Damar family.
Some groups have served at Damar for over 20 years! Their continued service has made a positive impact on our quality of care. As a part of National Volunteer Week, I want to recognize the people that serve beyond the typical volunteer experience and are eager to lend a helping hand.
One of those people is Becky Sinders, a board member for League of Miracles. She has found a love for cheering on our kids at baseball games. When asked about Becky, the Recreation Director at Damar, Jim Porter, said, “Becky is very passionate about the League of Miracles players, especially our kids here at Damar. Her support and encouragement have such a positive effect on our young players on and off the diamond.”
For Becky, volunteering is the highlight of her week. She said,
“I feel like I’m being given a gift to spend time with some very special kids. These kids have taught me so much. I make time because there isn’t anything I would rather do then spend time with the Damar kids at the League of Miracles games.”
Nancy Twigg is a volunteer with a big heart and a can-do attitude! She has been an active member of the Damar Guild since 1992 and helps around Damar in many ways. She spends hours searching for the perfect birthday gifts for our residents. She says,
“I make it my mission to get what they ask for. If they ask for a Colts poster with just the horse’s head on it, I’m going to find it!”
So to Nancy, Becky, and the hundreds of others who takes the time to help, thank you. Whether it’s in a volunteer capacity or a moment in everyday life, you give me hope. We are stronger together.
How will you help someone during National Volunteer Week?
Here are a few ideas…
- Sign up to fill a backpack in celebration of a child at Damar.
- Practice being fully present with friends and families.
- Show kindness to strangers.
- Look for ways to help lighten the load for a busy family.
- Write a letter of encouragement or tell someone why you appreciate them.
Learn About Our Backpack Drive:
