by Amanda Waddell, American Red Cross
When our world goes a little, or a lot, sideways, and we’re thrown into a reality that requires isolation and distance, what are people and communities doing to find that ever-important sense of connection?
They’re volunteering.
Throughout the COVID 19 pandemic, hundreds of thousands of people have found themselves sheltered-in-place, secluded from their loved ones and their communities. Yet, amidst the upheaval, the Red Cross has seen a beautiful phenomena occuring – a massive surge in volunteerism.
Jackie Norris, Volunteer Engagement Lead for the Mile High Chapter (among many other positions!), has been working and volunteering for the Red Cross for over 50 years. 50 years, and she has never witnessed a response like this from the community –
“Almost immediately, our numbers of prospective volunteers started to increase…….I think this pandemic is the first global happening that has inspired so many people to volunteer.” – Jackie Norris
But, why? While our daily lives have been halted and the future is blurry, why are such large numbers of people turning to the Red Cross?
Connection.
We all need it. To navigate these uncertain times, to look outside of ourselves in times of crisis, volunteering can offer a bit of light through connection and community.
Carrie Kemp, Volunteer Recruitment Manager for the Mile High Area, has seen this surge firsthand, and sees it for what it truly is –
“The fact that people turn to volunteering during these trying times says a lot about humanity. There are good, selfless people out there….” – Carrie Kemp
These good, selfless people are forming connections even when isolation seems to be the way of life. Both Jackie and Carrie recognize the practicality of the situation also; that with more time at home, people are finding ways to serve because they finally can, they finally have the time. But, as life slowly opens back up to work and activities and time becomes scarce again, a lot of these new volunteers will stay on with the Red Cross. They will continue because they found that connection during a historical global crisis and discovered the value in volunteering. They found that it is absolutely true, when we serve our community, we personally receive more joy and comfort than we could ever give.