Ann Berkemeier from St. Mark’s Conference started volunteering at SVdP Indy’s 30th Street Food Pantry on a regular basis. Then she invited a friend to join her. And another. And another. Those friends invited others. Today, there’s a solid group of old and new friends volunteering together the same day every week.
Ann and her friends highlight one of our most critical needs: regular volunteers. These individuals volunteer in the same jobs each week, helping us develop consistent procedures and organizational knowledge. Volunteer opportunities are available across the organization: Food Pantry, Distribution Center, Help Line, etc.
Clearly, regular volunteers benefit SVdP. We think, however, that it is just as beneficial to you! Keep these reasons in mind as you consider volunteering—or extending a personal invitation to a friend, just like Ann did.
Here are 10 reasons to consider becoming a regular volunteer:
- You find personal fulfillment doing something that matters—something with purpose that makes a difference for others.
- You make new friends—and you can never have too many of those. Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, especially if you are new to an area.
- You contribute to a cause you care about, connecting to your community and making it a better place. Even helping out with the smallest tasks can make a real difference.
- Your mental health is positively impacted. Nothing relieves stress better than a meaningful connection to someone. And the more you give of your time and talents, the happier you’ll feel.
- You create stronger bonds. You build closer relationships, better connections and more meaningful attachments when you volunteer alongside family, friends and coworkers.
- You don’t go it alone—we provide training so you can have confidence in the tasks you perform.
- You use your skills in a productive way, helping SVdP live out its mission.
- You choose your comfort spot. Whether you like to be out front or behind-the-scenes, we have volunteer options for you.
- You get out of the house. Loneliness and social isolation are epidemics in themselves, and one of the simplest ways to combat that is through volunteering.
- You broaden your support network, exposing you to people with common interests and passions.
Bonus reason: We’re flexible! We understand that life happens, and you may need to take time off for family, vacations, appointments, etc. We’re happy to have your support and will work around your schedule as needed.
How to get started
- Complete our application.
- Then work with our Director of Volunteer Services to determine the best fit based on your interests and skills and our needs.
- Set goals:
- Number of hours/days per week
- Number of friends to invite to volunteer with you
More
Review volunteer handbook
Download application
