Before Love INC in Anchorage opened 3 years ago, I did not routinely volunteer anywhere beyond my church.  I didn't think I had much to offer, and as the adoptive mother of children with special needs, I didn't have a lot of time for myself.  So what changed and why was I asked to share with you about the volunteer experience at Love INC?

 

I came to a difficult time of transition in my life, grieving and asking God for leading.  It appeared our family-building years were over, my children were in school, yet due to their many appointments and absences, it was impractical to get a job.  So I chose to turn my focus to others and asked what I could do for Love INC, a cause I strongly supported.  A year later, we were blessed by unexpectedly adopting another baby.  My time at Love INC had become such a positive part of my life that my husband asked me to find a way to continue.  Friends from church blessed us and Love INC by offering to babysit one day a week, taking on the role of grandparents.  It has been a win-win situation all around.

 

Why do any of us volunteer?  Perhaps we were helped through a difficult time ourselves and want to give back.  Or maybe we don't want anyone else to go through it alone, as we did!  Perhaps we've never experienced the pain of homelessness, addiction, domestic violence, disability, or unemployment, but recognize that "There but for the grace of God go I!"  Or there's something missing in our lives and we know that doing for others will lend purpose and meaning.  Maybe we're retired, or empty nesters.  The one motivation all volunteers at Love INC have in common is a desire to tangibly show the love of Christ to our neighbors in need.

 

The atmosphere at Love INC is warm and welcoming.  I've made good friends there.  The staff are understanding of volunteers' individual schedules, abilities and limitations.  There are many possible tasks to choose from.  I've done a little of this, that, and the other, whatever was needed most.  My husband heads a monthly furniture pick-up and delivery team from our church.  Occasionally, he delivers a care basket to a man.  Neither takes much time, but fills a critical need.  What about you?  Do you enjoy talking on the phone?  Doing uncomplicated computer work or basic office tasks like photocopying or putting together training packets?  Writing?  What about cleaning?  Organizing donations?  Making up baskets?  Are you interested in helping with intakes, verifying needs, making up vouchers, or coordinating volunteers?

 

I'm disappointed when family illness or scheduling conflicts keep me away.  On a given day, the specific tasks I do may not feel like much, or be my favorites, but the staff are always appreciative and I know that working together, we can share Christ's love with neighbors in need, and that makes it worthwhile.  Will you join us?

 

By Jane Bedwell