As I sit here thinking about my Volunteer Odyssey, I feel as though I am mentally packing my bags and preparing to depart for some exotic location. While physically I may not be headed far from home, emotionally I feel that I will spend a week being transplanted into different worlds of service. I couldn’t be more excited! It will truly be an adventure not only into my community but into my own passions and goals. I can’t begin to fathom all that I will learn during my odyssey, but I do know that I am thrilled to begin it. Volunteering has never been one-sided for me, and I’ve been lucky enough to have been moved in indescribable ways through service. With this in mind, I am spending the time leading up to my week preparing myself to welcome this challenge with an open mind and heart, and see where the road I am on will take me!
However, the nervous anticipation that accompanies most journeys is also present. The excited restlessness that wonders: “What if I can’t speak the language well enough?” or “What if I get lost in an unfamiliar place?” except now I am wondering “How do I take this week and make the most of it?” I hope to embrace the unfamiliar and grow from it. In broadening my horizons personally and professionally, I know that I will find meaning and success in my journey!
I also can’t help but think about how grateful I am to have this opportunity and to be a part of Volunteer Odyssey, how important it is serve others. I look forward to making new connections with people employed at non-profits in the city, as well as the communities they serve. Volunteer Odyssey will allow me to help others, and in turn help myself. Hopefully, by the end of this week, I’ll have gained some insight into my skills, passions, and how to best apply them to a career where I can spend my time and energy improving the lives of others. I hope that you all will join me on my Volunteer Odyssey!
Dorothy is looking for a community outreach or partnerships position at a non-profit organization in Memphis that will allow her to connect with varied and diverse groups of people to make a difference.