Making a difference - that's what this blog is all about. Volunteering is about making a difference too. I enjoy the time I spend volunteering, but since this blog is NOT about me, let me tell you one of the reasons I enjoy volunteering: our Volunteer Services Manager. First let me remind you that I never write about private parties without their knowledge and consent, unless they are public figures or have already been publicized by the media. I won't therefore be referring to this woman by name.
Other than family, I don't think I have ever met someone as caring and committed as this woman. It was perfect that she was chosen to recruit, train, and supervise volunteers. Most people love making someone else’s life a little bit easier. That is one of the reason so many folks volunteer their time. Quite simply helping others makes us happier. Our manager though isn't a volunteer, she is a paid staff member. You might expect her to put in her time and go home. Nope. She seems to be involved 24 hours a day.
Of course any good leader should care, but we all know that isn't the case. Some managers don't lead, they just bark orders. How many of them really care about you outside of work too? Sadly the answer is not many. My manager though is one of those amazing exceptions. She is always thinking about her volunteers and seems to always find time for them. During a recent stay in the hospital, she visited me a couple of times, brought me flowers, and even came by to drive me home when I was discharged. It didn't stop there. She called later on to see how I was doing!
Throughout life I have tried to copy the actions of many of my heroes - folks who to me are making a difference. I have learned so much from them and am inspired to do better. My volunteer services manager is such a great example of someone I want to copy. The world is a better place because of her!