National Volunteer Week is April 17 – April 23. Since 1974, National Volunteer Week has served as an opportunity to recognize those that dedicate their time and effort to the causes they care about. The National Volunteer Week theme for 2022, Volunteering Is Empathy in Action, affirms the strong connection between volunteerism and empathy. This profound human connection is at the heart of healthier individuals and stronger communities. Many individuals in Recovery find that volunteering helps support them in their journey and helps them to grow, while doing the same for others.
Volunteering is generally considered an altruistic activity and is intended to promote good or improve human quality of life. In return, this activity produces a feeling of self-worth and respect. Volunteering is also renowned for skill development, socialization, and fun. It is also intended to make contacts for possible employment. You can celebrate by thanking volunteers for their work, involving yourself in a volunteer activity, or by donating to a volunteer group.
As States continue various recommendations on combating the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact, it’s more important than ever to inspire new volunteers and thank the ones that continue to serve however they are able. Whether they volunteer their time in-person or remotely from their home, volunteers are often providing the support individuals and organization need during this ongoing crisis.
I started volunteering for THRIVE back in May of 2021. While there I started to take part in outreach events and clerical work and was offered a job at the front desk part-time. From there, I was provided with more opportunities to grow personally, and professionally, while helping others as well. I eventually had the opportunity to enroll in a Peer Recovery Coach course that was offered at THRIVE. Today, I am now fully employed as a CRPA with a career I love. And it all started with volunteering.