The Gift

During this time of year, we begin to think about the gifts that we will give to those we love and the gifts that we will receive. At a recent volunteer project, I received a gift from a stranger. The United Way's volunteer center, in partnership with Panera Bread, organize monthly service projects for the community. While completing our fall clean up at First Step, I was chatting with a young woman named Kimberly, who by sharing her story with me, gave me the gift of renewal - a reminder of our larger purpose. Her story is below:

"It was a pleasure volunteering with you this past weekend. As I mentioned to you, this was my first experience volunteering and I feel so wonderful about it. I have always had good intentions and am empathetic to people's pain, but I know that my good intentions mean nothing without action. So, signing up to volunteer was my birthday gift to myself. I know that the time and work spent may not impact a large group of people, but it meant so much to those we worked with. It meant that the staff could better utilize their time to counsel people over the phone and to interact with the families that they serve. What I didn't mention to you that day, is that being there was even more personal. First, I know of women that have needed to retreat to a women's shelter. And second, when my mother died she was homeless and living in a shelter. So, making that connection was good for my soul.

I hope to be able to do more with the United Way. Thank you for the opportunity."

Kimberly said that volunteering was a gift to herself, she also gave of herself. Please think about sharing all of the gifts you possess to make a difference by volunteering.

Patricia A. McCann
Director, Volunteer Services
United Way for Southeastern Michigan George W. Romney Volunteer Center