NVW2017: Transforming communities

VOLY.org, powered by VolunteerNow, is the 24/7 connection between volunteers and local service opportunities. VolunteerNow nonprofits use VOLY.org to directly post their specific volunteer needs. 

These VOLY.org volunteers created a free volunteer profile and have worked with the Dallas Children's Advocacy Center, Methodist Hospital, Make A Wish Foundation, Meals on Wheels, the Martin Luther King Center, and others.

Julie Bernhard
"I have discovered the more I give and help others; the happier I become. The funny thing I have realized about volunteering is that it originally starts out as just something to get a box checked - show up somewhere, give your time and hope it changes someone in an impactful way.  The reality of it is, it changes you.  What you get back in return is so much more fulfilling than any paycheck or prize. Never underestimate the power of serving others.”

Kevin Maus
When asked why he ejoys volunteering, Maus said, "[The] feeling like I'm helping others. Plus, a tremendous sense of gratitude for what I have and where I came from every time I leave. Try it! You'll probably get the same perspective. I know it sounds cliché but I truly get more out of hanging with those kids than they get out of me."

Evelyn Walling
"I volunteer to satisfy my need to give back to my community. I am a native Dallasite and Dallas has been very good to me. When I retired, I made a bucket list and volunteering was at the top of my list." If she had to give one piece of advice on why people should volunteer, she would, "tell people how gratifying it is to be of service to help someone else."

Angela Jiura
"I volunteer because I feel like helping others is what we were made to do. It goes along with how I was raised and it makes me feel happy giving back to my community. Giving back is what life is all about. You should volunteer because investing in important causes is crucial to helping others and making a difference in the world. There are so many wonderful organizations to choose from and finding something you are passionate about is easy. It will be the best decision of your life!"

Inspired? Want to volunteer? Go to www.VOLY.org to create your volunteer profile and choose from hundreds of organizations and opportunities in your area. Happy volunteering! 

About National Volunteer Week 

Throughout history, nonprofit organizations have made significant changes in the world by identifying social problems, participating in education reform, caring for the vulnerable, promoting arts and culture, and more. However, the impact that nonprofits have on local and global communities is only possible because of those who choose to make a difference by investing in volunteer work. On April 20, 1974, President Richard Nixon issued an executive order which designated National Volunteer Week as a week in April with the purpose of celebrating the work of volunteers and encouraging communities to join in service activities. There are many ways for individuals to participate in National Volunteer Week, which takes place this year on April 23 through 29. Communities will often organize volunteer projects for the public, and many specific opportunities can be found on the website VOLY.org, powered by VolunteerNow. VOLY.org is a 24/7 online platform that connects volunteers to hundreds of opportunities and needs posted by local nonprofits.

National Volunteer Week is a time for organizations to recognize those who have inspired others to serve through their passion and dedication. When nonprofits show appreciation for their volunteers, it reminds them that their time and commitment does not go unnoticed, and this may encourage future service. Specific ideas to recognize volunteers are listed below.

  • Send “Thank You” cards

  • Create original custom coasters by writing “Thank You” messages with permanent markers on 4 inch x 4 inch ceramic tiles

  • Create a bulletin board that has pictures of the volunteers in action and handwritten “Thank You” notes from staff and clients

  • Post each volunteer’s hours on VOLY.org, and the platform will send out a “Thank You” email on the behalf of the organization


Calah Kelley