Big Brothers Volunteering

Why do I volunteer with Big Brothers/Big Sisters of America? That’s a great question. The truth is I have a number of reasons. Perhaps the biggest reason is because someone volunteered to help me. Years ago, I was on the other side of the table. I was alone and I felt kinda lost. It’s a little embarrassing to talk about now, but whatever the right direction in life is, I was going the opposite way. More than once, I found myself on the wrong side of a jail cell. If someone hadn’t stepped in when he did, I probably wouldn’t even be here right now. I’d either be in a cell again or somewhere a lot smaller and significantly deeper.

I’ve seen the work that big brothers/big sisters has been doing all over the country and I’m pleased to be a part of it. I’ve never done anything that made me prouder then my volunteering work. Big brothers/big sisters helped me get my head on straight, and if I can help anyone like they helped me, then I have an obligation to serve for as long as they’ll have me. There are no words to describe the joy I get from helping somebody turn their life around. Believe me, when you’ve been there and felt everything that you’re talking about, you don’t want anyone else to ever feel that way.


Don’t tell anyone I said that, but volunteering is probably the fastest way to get over sadness or depression. Every time I start to feel bad, I talk to someone who needs my help and it makes me feel better and worse all at the same time. I feel better, because doing good things fills me with a sense of pride that nothing else does. I feel worse because I feel as though I have no right to complain about my situation especially when I hear what others are going through.


I’ve come a long way from where I was and volunteering is a good way for me to be reminded of that. I had a great big brother when I was growing up, and every time I think that that’s me now, I’m proud and happy.


Volunteering is how I want to leave my mark on the world. I recommend volunteer work to everybody, especially for somebody who isn’t sure where they’re going in life. Helping someone find their path is often the best way to find yours. Believe me, start volunteering at any of the numerous charitable organizations, and you will find your purpose in life! Everybody needs to give back, and if you can only do some, please volunteer.


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