"I'm Just a Volunteer."
Why volunteerism – and volunteer recognition – are essential
I hear it all the time. At events and meetings, people without a professional affiliation introduce themselves with, “I’m just a volunteer,” or “I’m just a resident.” While I understand the tendency, we all must recognize that people voluntarily giving of their time, knowledge, and passion is what keeps communities afloat. This sort of involvement is literally what builds cohesive, invested communities.
The other night, I had the privilege of attending Tree Pittsburgh’s Volunteer Appreciation and Yule Log Party, which has become one of my favorite gatherings. To be clear, my role as a Tree Pittsburgh volunteer is limited. Kathi’s the Operations Manager, so I might run a few items at a party or post about upcoming events. But I know a good gathering when I see one and try to make the volunteer party when I can.
I met someone the other evening who introduced herself as being “just a tree tender.” Only later did I learn that she was one of five people up for Volunteer of the Year award. These are the most committed of all the volunteers, each of them doing their part to help Tree Pittsburgh restore the urban tree canopy.
The only “just” in this volunteerism is the justice of it all. Together, these people are planting the seeds for healthier communities, and a cooler, more sustainable city.*
It’s essential that we recognize and honor this important work.
Perspective and laughter come into play as well. The woman who won the Volunteer of the Year honor, Suzie Laurich-McIntyre, shared a few remarks. She mentioned that she had looked at the big ‘ol pot of chili that had fed the group and thought, “I’m just a fleck of pepper in that bowl of chili.” There was a pregnant pause, because everyone knows Suzie’s more than a fleck of pepper. And then someone shouted from that back of the room, “You’re a bean!”
Indeed, Suzie, you are a bean (and more, of course). Bring together everyone who’s “just” a volunteer, just a resident, and just a donor, and we quickly have a massive roaster pan of sustenance on even the coldest of winter nights. Thank you to those of you who volunteer at Tree Pittsburgh and everywhere else. And kudos to organizations that intentionally honor their volunteers. It perpetuates a culture of both giving and gratitude. Kelsey Munsick, you hit the ball out of the park with this one!
*According to Tree Pittsburgh, canopy data shows that Allegheny County is losing 2% of its tree canopy every five years. They are working toward a goal of no net loss through plantings and various other programs. Here’s where you can support them.
In Case You Missed It…
Here’s my most recent post, which highlights my favorite reads this year. And here’s a personal favorite among my year-end posts, this one written three years ago after the passing of Franco Harris.
I love that! "You are a bean!"