Volunteer sign in sheet at Tallahassee community center.
"We are not put on this earth for ourselves, but are placed here for each other. If you are there always for others, then in time of need, someone will be there for you," said American folk music legend Jeff Warner.
Community service plays a vital role in making the world a better place. Accordingly, there is always someone who could use a helping hand. While there are currently a great number of volunteers in the Tallahassee community, due to the rising need of assistance, there is room for improvement.
Leon County promotes volunteerism through a program, Volunteer Leon, whose ultimate goal is to connect people with the opportunity to serve by empowering individuals to answer local needs for community engagement to make a difference in Tallahassee.
Frances Macvicar, outreach and operations manager at Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Big Bend, highlighted issues that interfere with community outreach. “The biggest concern,” she noted, “is the lack of consistency regarding community service.”
“Often times we see that people implement community service as a requirement, however, we find with most people that as soon as they satisfy the community service hours they need through our organization, we typically lose contact with them,” Macvicar added.
According to helpguide.org, community involvement is not only beneficial in helping others in need, but it improves one's overall health and happiness. Tallahassee resident Vanessa Wade is a prime example of one who executes community service in her daily life not only because it is the right thing to do, but because it makes her happy.
Wade, president of the Tallahassee chapter of the Order of Eastern Star, said that whether big or small, the act of community service is essential. There is always a way to make a difference in the world, she said.
"When you serve others, not only are you helping them grow, but you grow with them," said Wade.
In essence, it is apparent that community outreach in Tallahassee is primarily executed as a requirement. However, it is key that we implement community service into our daily lives, regardless. This would ensure that the needs of the community are fulfilled and would aid in connecting with one another and building resourceful relationships that would ultimately help us grow in unity as a community.