Hannah Dunlap
How would someone define “volunteering?”
It could simply mean “working without being paid” or “offering free help.” Volunteering could even mean “doing something of my choice” or “doing something of free will.” However, these definitions provide no insight into the heart behind volunteerism.
Why do people volunteer? Is it out of duty or out of love? Is it for a sense of achievement so that you feel good about yourself or is it a sense of compassion for others?
When it comes to my volunteering, I define it as giving of myself to minister to the needs of others. I volunteer so that I can help people who are less fortunate than I am.
My 4-H Club recently visited the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and learned about the Kids’ Campaign Against Hunger. We learned that one out of every four children in Pittsburgh does not get enough to eat every day.
This information inspired me to want to make a difference and to volunteer to help children in need.
In an effort to make a difference, my club, Home and Heart 4-H Club of Butler County, is taking part in the “Pennies for Peanut Butter” campaign. One jar of peanut butter can hold enough pennies to purchase eight jars of peanut butter. Since peanuts have so much protein, peanut butter is one of the best foods underprivileged children can eat.
Helping people who are less fortunate than I really shows me how privileged I really am. I want to give every child the same chances that I have had in my life.
I also volunteer so I can share my love to people who might need a friend.
I recently took part in a talent show at Concordia Lutheran Ministries. It was wonderful to see how I can use my gifts and talents to brighten the residents’ day.
I also go to the Sunnyview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center to visit the residents there. I bring my pets to show them and talk to them about both myself and their lives.
Senior citizens in nursing homes are often lonely. They miss their families and children. When I visit them, I add just a little bit of sunshine to their day.
This makes me feel like I am truly making a difference in their world.
Whenever I volunteer, wherever I go and whatever I do, I put my entire heart into ministering to others. I show compassion to the less-fortunate and lonely.
Just a few hours can change someone’s whole life around. To me, knowing this is the best feeling.
Therefore, I believe that volunteering is more than doing something by choice for no money or to feel good about yourself. To me, it means giving of myself to help others.
That is why I choose to volunteer.
Hannah Dunlap is in eighth grade at Knoch Middle School.
