Good Causes need YOU
Paige Reid // April 6, 2012
Volunteering is something every public relations student – indeed, anyone that is able – should consider. Volunteering can benefit both you and your community, and it can be incredibly rewarding. An added benefit? Future employers like to see you’ve taken the time to give back to your community.
Last year I was in high school and took part in a co-op program. I told my teacher I wanted a public relations placement, and you would not believe how long it took to find one, but when we did it was the perfect match. I did my 100 hours of co-op at the Lung Association and I loved every minute of it. I figured that, being a high school student, I wouldn’t be allowed to do very much, but boy was I wrong! They graciously allowed me to take part in almost everything that was going on; I helped with their golf books campaign, the Lung Run, their volunteer luncheon, and I even did a presentation about lung health at my high school. These experiences have helped me gain knowledge along with many valuable skills. Although my time there as a co-op student was short, I have stayed on with the organization as a volunteer.
Many people benefit from the programs and services offered by non-profit organizations, but many non-profits cannot function without their volunteers.Volunteers are highly valued at the Lung Association and are treated with great respect. Whether you’re opening letters for a couple of hours or helping with registration at the Lung Run, you will feel as though you have made a difference. This non-profit does everything they can to help benefit individuals involved in their programs, and some of the stories are truly incredible. Louis Brill, President and CEO of the Lung Association of Nova Scotia, says volunteers are necessary in the day-to-day running of the organization:
“Volunteers are an essential part of the Lung Association of Nova Scotia. We are a volunteer-driven organization and we rely on these generous people to help us achieve our mission of improving lung health for Nova Scotians. From our volunteer receptionists to our direct mail, health education and event volunteers, each volunteer is an integral part of our team. Without the support and dedication of our volunteers and donors, we would not be able to continue serving the lung health needs of Nova Scotians.”
Without volunteers, organizations like the Lung Association would not be able to help the many people in need of their services. In Halifax alone there are so many charities and non-profits that need your help. I encourage everyone to take one hour of his or her week and find a way to support a charity or organization of your choice. One hour of your time can benefit you and your community in more ways than you can possibly imagine.
