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Giving
Unto Others
I
shall pass through this world but once. Any good therefore
that I can do or any kindness that I can show to any
human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer or
neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again...
(Mahatma Gandhi)
Gandhi
knew the importance of helping others. So did Jesus,
who told the parable of the Good Samaritan as a way of
explaining what it means to live in Christ: to help others,
no matter who they may be or from where they may come.
So did Mother Teresa, who once said: “There is
a tremendous strength that is growing in the world through
sharing together, praying together, suffering together
and working together.”
The
essence of volunteerism, which sounds like a complicated
dogma, is actually quite simple: it’s good to help
others. In fact, it’s not just good for the “others” – it’s
good for the giver as well.
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Most
importantly, it’s good for the community. In fact, the
strongest communities are those where people give generously
of their time. Often these efforts are channeled through churches
and other religious organizations, schools, and community organizations
like the Junior League of Jackson. Other times, it arises organically
through the combined efforts of individuals who want to make
a positive difference in the lives of their neighbors.
Sometimes,
all it takes to get someone to volunteer is a request. According
to a 2001 study by Independent
Sector, 71% of those individuals who are asked to volunteer
do so, compared with 29% of those who aren’t asked. After
all, we live in a busy world. The instinct to help others is
a natural one. Sometimes, though, it’s hard to remember
to take the time.
At
Operation Shoestring, we’re always happy and grateful
for the help of our many volunteers. And we’ve got plenty
for them to do! Our Project KIDS, Christian Children’s
Fund (CCF), and Stamp Out Drop Out! programs couldn’t
function without the donated time of volunteers.
Helping
others: it’s an instinct and a gift that spans the generations.
Perhaps Aesop, the great fabler, said it best: "No act
of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted."
For
more information on how you can contribute your time to our
efforts here at Operation Shoestring, check our “Volunteer
Opportunities” page. More questions? Contact Sarah
Bartlett at (601) 353-6336 or sbartlett@operationshoestring.org.
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