In honor of all our volunteers

We are surrounded by extraordinary people who quietly and selflessly serve others. They inspire us to pause, reflect and even pray that we might live with the same kind of compassion.
If you are one of these people, thank you. Thank you for all you do for those you graciously serve and for the difference you make in your community.
I wanted to better understand the heart behind volunteerism, so I reached out to a few people near my community in Florida. Here is what I learned:
“Imagine a world where every volunteer said, ‘We’ve done enough,’ what would happen to everything we depend on if they quit serving their community?” asked John Solomon, Executive Director of the Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce – and a volunteer himself. “What volunteers do is not for fortune or fame, but from love for their community and fellow humans.
John is passionate about ensuring volunteers receive the recognition they deserve. He named some of the area’s most dedicated helpers: “Firefighters, first responders, ball coaches, non-profits, and people helping at senior centers – the list goes on.”
This kind of service is never small. As Sheryl Clouse, a Franklin County Volunteer of the Year recipient, shared, “Giving your time is giving a part of your life, and that makes it meaningful and helps build a better world.” Sheryl beautifully added, helping make “someone’s worst days a little brighter…that’s what volunteering is all about.”
In that giving, something powerful happens. “It’s amazing to see how good people are. We’re all connected in ways that change lives,” said Teresa Adams, secretary and volunteer at the Carrabelle Food Pantry. She has witnessed how simple acts of kindness can lift up others in lasting ways. “Volunteers often fail to realize the full impact of their actions.”
For many recipients, the impact is immediate and deeply personal. “Some people wouldn’t have enough to eat if volunteers didn’t help – and they’re so grateful,” shared Barbara Hutto, who serves with Aaron Meals, the Carrabelle Food Pantry and Farm Share. “I find volunteering very rewarding … I feel like I am doing what the Lord has brought me here to do.” Her words are a powerful reminder that showing up again and again can mean the difference between hardship and hope for the recipients.
In a world filled with an entitlement mentality, the selfless acts of volunteers reflect love in action. Matthew 5:16 (ESV) reminds us, “Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
I would love to hear from more of you. If you serve as a volunteer or have been blessed by one, please share your story. If your ministry or organization needs more volunteers, feel free to reach out.
As John Solomon reminds us, “April is Volunteer Month. Let’s celebrate those who give of themselves by helping others. Thank you all!”

Sheryl H. Boldt is a sales executive for Wave 94 and author of the blog, TodayCanBeDifferent.net. Connect with her at SherylHBoldt.Wave94@gmail.com.