Serving Others

April is Global Volunteer Month. During the week of April 17-23 we will be celebrating our volunteers in honor of National Volunteer Week. While we appreciate and quietly celebrate all of our volunteers throughout the year, this is an opportunity to inform you about the valuable work our volunteers do!

Volunteers have such an amazing impact on LifeBridge participants’ lives by simply “doing life” with them. Whether playing games at camp, exploring this fabulous community, or enjoying holiday parties, the time volunteers spend with our participants is priceless!

So, who are our volunteers and what do they do?

Board Members: We have 17 individuals dedicated to our mission. In addition to “doing life” with our participants, they guide our work, plan our future, and help ensure we have the resources needed to meet our mission. We appreciate the countless hours each member of our Board spends preparing for and attending meetings and fundraising events, as well as the time they spend with the individuals participating in our programs.

Young Professional Board: Our YPB members dedicate themselves to planning special outings with our participants. They also spread the word about LifeBridge through networking happy hours and other special events.

Program Volunteers: Many people share our vision that people of all abilities should find belonging, realize their potential and experience well-being. We are fortunate to have these individuals join us on outings in the community serving as companions, helping participants navigate the community, and assisting with tasks, such as pushing a wheelchair, when needed.

In total, we have nearly 150 individuals help us fulfill our mission each year, generously giving almost 2,000 hours of their time. It is estimated that each volunteer hour is worth about $30; for LifeBridge Partnership, it is priceless! For all the volunteers out there…YOU ARE APPRECIATED!

Volunteering is good for LifeBridge, but it’s also good for the volunteer. Donating time and energy to help others directly or through an organization increases confidence, helps to combat depression and promotes physical health.

If you would like to learn more about volunteering with LifeBridge Partnership go to: www.lifebridgestl.org/volunteer

Karen Schuster, CEO