Izzie Kirkwood ~ Intern
Taken by Lorraine Upton
University of Lynchburg students are preparing to celebrate National Volunteer Month this April.
Originally started in 1991 after President George H.W. Bush launched the 1000 Points of Light campaign to honor those who volunteered their time and energy towards charitable causes, but it has grown into a month of recognition where over 64 million people volunteer for their favorite nonprofit organizations.
Among these volunteers is Ashley Morgan, a junior and member of the Bonner Leader Program who believes volunteering is something that everyone should be doing.
“It is important to give back to the community that you’re living in,” she explains. “It can help you learn about your community and grow.”
Morgan says that she regularly volunteers with the Free Clinic of Central Virginia, an organization focused on providing high-quality healthcare for those that are underinsured or uninsured.
However, not all students have to look off-campus for volunteer opportunities.
According to Cory Schutter, community engagement coordinator for the Center of Community Engagement, there will be many places on campus for students to drop in and volunteer, either with donations of goods or time.
“You don’t have to go off campus to make a difference,” Schutter says. “Usually, all you need is a caring spirit and good WiFi.”
There will also be service plunges each weekend in April that will provide opportunities for students to volunteer.
Students can follow the link here to sign up to volunteer for any of the weekend plunges.
Although this month is focused on serving the community, many people believe that it is crucial for people to give back to their societies all throughout the year, not just during national holidays.
“Caring isn’t limited to a single volunteer event, it’s part of a culture of care,” explains Schutter. “Volunteering in April is just a warm-up for a lifetime of caring for those around us. Lean into what you care for, unleash your changemaking skills, and don’t be afraid to make a difference.”
For more information about National Volunteer Month, the 1000 Points of Light campaign, or what other opportunities there are to volunteer this month, follow the link here.