A Trusted TrustedName Name in in Mental Health Care Mental Health Care For Over 67 Years
too, like flu shot clinics and company picnics. “We had our company picnic, and I sent out an email, a request to have people assist,” Mary recalls. “Without hesitation, they’re just willing and offering themselves to be of assistance.”
For Over 66 Years
Programs & Services ► Outpatient Treatment for people of all ages with several locations ► Short-term Hospitalization for people of all ages ► Partial Hospitalization Programs Children & Adolescents and Adults 18+ ► Laurel Hall School special education programs Hagerstown and Frederick ► Residential Services for Children & Adolescents Stone Bridge
For more information or to refer contact our admissions office 301-733-0330 ♦ 800-342-2992 www.brooklane.org Hagerstown, Maryland A Not-for-Profit Organization Serving the Region Since 1949
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| Holiday 2016
MAKING A MATCH Those interested in giving back should look for an organization that matches their passion and skill set.“If they don’t believe in what the organizations does, it’s not going to be a good match,” Carolyn says. Believing in the mission is a crucial first point.“If it’s not something they have passion for, it’s not likely to be sustained over the long haul,”Jodie says. That feeling is something that shines through.“I’ve not had the opportunity to work with a group of people who are more self-motivated,” Mary says of the Meritus volunteers. “There’s a level of passion when you talk to them. When you meet them, you can actually hear it.” Keep in mind that nonprofits can benefit from all kinds of skills, including those at a professional level. At United Way of Washington County, for example, Melissa relies on volunteers with expertise in areas like marketing and graphic design. “All the agencies need that kind of help,” she says. When considering skills, gifts and talents, Tina suggests that potential volunteers consider doing something that’s different from what their job is to avoid burn out, and also ask about observing a volunteer position before committing. As Kimberly points out, some positions might be more than a volunteer can handle emotionally. “Volunteers see these homeless animals, and it can be very emotional for them,” she says, adding that there’s also “a lot of fulfillment when those animals are placed in a new home.” Volunteer coordinators at individual organizations can work directly with volunteers to match them with a position, and volunteers can also create profiles and search a broad array of opportunities at matching websites. Tina mentions sites like www. pointsoflight.org/handsonnetwork and volunteermatch.org, which include local and global opportunities, and potential volunteers can connect with local organizations in need through volunteer.unitedwaywashcounty.org, a site administered by the United Ways of Washington and Frederick counties. Interested volunteers can create a profile there and allow agencies in need of their skills to contact them, or search and contact specific agencies directly, Melissa says. Any help volunteers can give is greatly appreciated by the organizations they serve.“For someone to get up and leave their home — they’re not getting reimbursed — and go to an establishment to give their time, translates to me as somebody who has a big heart,” Mary says. “It just says a lot to me about the people who come through the doors.”And while giving back is a natural inclination around the holidays, a year round commitment can be a gift that keeps on giving, to the individuals who serve and to the greater community.“I don’t think the majority of nonprofits could survive without their volunteers,”Kimberly says.“They’re just that important to the organizations.” P