Written by Zachary Davis, ShowerUp Nashville Volunteer
Everyone has heard the adage, “every vote matters.” If this is true, it will stand to reason that every person’s service also matters. While some potential volunteers doubt their ability to affect change, it is not as daunting a task as it seems. Here are a few reasons one person can make a difference in another’s life.
1. Our actions influence others, causing a “ripple” effect
Our daily interactions do not exist in a vacuum – they constantly affect others. In a CBS News article, Steve Tobak reasons that our actions create a “ripple effect” that has the potential to “impact thousands over generations.” Even a one-time act, such as volunteering in the local community or donating to a charity, can inspire others to do the same.
2. Volunteer work changes one’s community
Seemingly small acts go a long way in improving one’s community. For example, picking up trash keeps local wildlife safe, while volunteering at a soup kitchen helps feed the hungry. Every act of kindness creates bonds within the community and widens opportunities for its members. According to Rico Fleshman of KPWB, these acts may also help by “reducing the burden on government spending” and allowing nonprofits to run more smoothly.
3. Trying is the most important part
Elayna Fernandez writes in her Positive MOM Blog that “helping is not about… knowing exactly what the outcome will be,” but rather is the selfless expression of care and positive intentions. Our service inspires others to do good and eliminates fear as an obstacle to change. Often we fail to serve because we are worried about whether our effort will make any difference. Instead, we should take action.
In conclusion, one’s service fills an immediate need and can potentially reduce government expenditures and increase nonprofit efficiency. Even small acts of kindness have the potential to create a “ripple effect” of positive attitudes and actions that may affect generations to come. Rather than worry about whether one’s service is creating meaningful change, we should adopt a “just try” mentality and do it anyway. One person can make a difference.
