Volunteering

[Brent S]

I spent the day volunteering for a community project today. Six of us put in a deck and benches at a elementary school. It is for an outdoor classroom for the kids. The benches are built on a slope and the deck at the bottom looks like a theatre setting. All the materials were donated so they just needed some guidance and Manuel labor. Me and one other guy had some carpentry experience, but the others were a lot of help just holding and carrying things. I'm beat, but it's a good kind of tired.
Is anyone else involved in any volunteer activities currently, or in the past. I don't have a lot of free time with a disabled spouse and a small farm here, but it's good to give some to the community.

 

[Mountain trapper]

I spent the day volunteering for a community project today. Six of us put in a deck and benches at a elementary school. It is for an outdoor classroom for the kids. The benches are built on a slope and the deck at the bottom looks like a theatre setting. All the materials were donated so they just needed some guidance and Manuel labor. Me and one other guy had some carpentry experience, but the others were a lot of help just holding and carrying things. I'm beat, but it's a good kind of tired.
Is anyone else involved in any volunteer activities currently, or in the past. I don't have a lot of free time with a disabled spouse and a small farm here, but it's good to give some to the community.

About 20+ years ago I was hurt in a logging accident and was laid up for a several months. Our only heat at that time was wood and I wasn't able to get all the wood in before my accident. One day in November a man and his wife drove up with a truck load of wood for us, all cut and split. They even stacked it by the cabin too. I never met these people and had no idea who they were or how they heard about my accident. They wouldn't accept any payment, and were somewhat insulted that I offered. I'll never forget their kindness to a complete stranger. Many times over the years I've tried to repay their generosity by helping other people in need.

 

[Dani]

Only in out reach church activities, but have also been talking to a guy at an orphanage over in Africa. No, I can not go overseas, but I can help out in the local.

 

[Brent S]

About 20+ years ago I was hurt in a logging accident and was laid up for a several months. Our only heat at that time was wood and I wasn't able to get all the wood in before my accident. One day in November a man and his wife drove up with a truck load of wood for us, all cut and split. They even stacked it by the cabin too. I never met these people and had no idea who they were or how they heard about my accident. They wouldn't accept any payment, and were somewhat insulted that I offered. I'll never forget their kindness to a complete stranger. Many times over the years I've tried to repay their generosity by helping other people in need.

I like the idea of helping anonymously, It would be hard for my pride to accept 'charity' and the whole point is to help someone, not make them uncomfortable. I am far from rich, but never go to bed hungry. It's hard to not feel for anyone that does. Two years ago I helped renovate an old building that we turned into a soup kitchen. I don't think there's much more direct help you can do for another person than provide food. I think the volunteers that run the place are amazing people. I still rotate cans in the pantry, and donate some of the stuff before it expires.
The reason for this thread is twofold. First, I hope to inspire some to do something for others. Second, I hope to get new ideas of things/ways to help locally.

 

[Brent S]

Only in out reach church activities, but have also been talking to a guy at an orphanage over in Africa. No, I can not go overseas, but I can help out in the local.

Good to hear from you! I'm not religious, but im sure a church is one of the best places to learn the needs in your community. I am cynical however, and advise caution on the overseas donations. While I know there is need beyond our comprehension, there is also rampant fraud. I don't personally believe in a hell, but hope there is for anyone who would steal from a hungry child.

 

[Dani]

I am very cautious if sending money oversees, only when I know a person who has personally gone and can verify. . . and that person is one I know personally and trust. Not just from high school or whatever else. My Umcle and Aunt were missionaries in Africa for years.