The Adventures of Volunteer Work

November’s been ushered in here with both snow and warm weather (Indiana’s usual), and I’m left reflecting on a busy but fulfilling year. A big part of this year’s highlights came when I gave my time to volunteering, in many different aspects. Some of the volunteer opportunities I was able to take on this year were only possible because I now work from home. In many ways, volunteering is where most of my necessary socializing happens. And honestly, I’m only giving the time I have to give. So for anyone who thinks they don’t volunteer enough, I want to encourage you—you’re already giving the time you do have, and it’s okay if it’s not as much as you’d like. Life comes around in seasons, and this season I just happen to have more time to give. 💙

One of the more consistent volunteer positions I’ve held over the years has been with my local state park. Although a few things have changed over the years, I still enjoy helping with many of the events they put on, specifically their Women’s Wilderness Weekend, Full Moon 5K, and Autumn Getaway weekends. Although I wasn’t able to help as much as I hoped this year, especially for the Autumn Getaway weekends, it’s always fun to serve others as they enjoy themselves.

A new opportunity this year had me heading out to Cody, Wyoming for the Yellowstone Anglers’ Basecamp. Although I had no experience with fly fishing, my sister offered the opportunity and I took it. And honestly, though there was a lot of volunteering and work included, it felt in many ways like a vacation. Surrounded by the lovely mountains and crags near Yellowstone National Park, I found myself both refreshed and creatively inspired. Chatting with new friends among the volunteers and guests, I had amazing conversations, as well. (And yes, I did learn to fly fish—and will be continuing to learn more about this fun hobby!)

As usual, the fall months were dominated by volunteering as a train attendant on the Spirit of Jasper. Fun excursions from baseball games in the summer to dinner rides based around different themes (dining, wine & dine, pizza & beer, and autumn) allowed me to meet many different guests and see some familiar faces. These excursions can sometimes have their challenges, but I have to admit we have excellent guests who roll with the (sometimes exceptionally crazy) punches. This is one of my absolute favorite volunteering positions, and I plan to be doing it again next year.

The last opportunity I had this year cropped up while I was at the Angler’s Basecamp in August—volunteering as kitchen staff for Casting for Recovery, a weekend retreat of learning fly fishing and its benefits for ladies with breast cancer. It was such a fun time, if a bit busier than I expected. (Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to get any pictures.) My mom was also helping in the kitchen, so we prepared the menu, gathered everything we needed, and headed to Tennessee for a couple of days. The venue for the retreat was gorgeous, and everyone there so very kind. Our other kitchen staff gelled well with us, and we all had a very fun weekend. It’s definitely something I’ll consider for next year. 💙

This year’s volunteering adventures may be over, but I’m already anticipating next year’s round of fun—from spending tons of time outdoors to helping indoors as needed. Serving others has always been a big part of what I love, and although I serve many authors via editing, having the chance to see how my service affects others in person and in real time . . . nothing can beat that. And a bonus reward for me is making new friends and having wonderful conversations with so many different people.