This post is written in collaboration with Kids Business for Camp Quality. All opinions are my own.
In those dark times, while looking for gaps in the clouds and a little respite for my mental health, I went to the library to start doing some research.
What would it take for me to recover?
I picked up a book of personal accounts of people suffering from mental illness – discussing diagnosis to where they are today with their specific conditions.
While each story was somber, they were also inspiring.
There was one particular story of a lady who, in her journey of severe depression and anxiety, she took up volunteering work as a way to give her redirection, placement and a sense of belonging.
The story stayed in the forefront of my mind for a very long time. Unfortunately, it didn’t go further beyond that.
I understood how personally rewarding volunteering and charity work could be but I was still yet to overcome my own hurdles before helping others.
It’s taken me two plus years to finally get my ass into gear and while there is a slight tinge of regret of not acting any sooner, I always look forward to Thursday.
It’s my day to give back; to act on what I feel passionate about.
Coming from a less than privileged background, I see great importance in helping women of disadvantage to be self-sufficient and above all, financially independent.
The bittersweet of being a volunteer is while it’s so very rewarding, you also quickly realize how never ending it is.
There is always, always someone in desperate need.
Countless.
If it wasn’t for the Bloggers Brunch 2 years ago – where I first heard Liz Montgomery from Fitted For Work – it would’ve taken even longer to open my heart and offer my time to a worthy cause.
At the Bloggers Brunch last month, Camp Quality took the floor.
Committed to their purpose in creating a better life for every child living with cancer in Australia, Camp Quality holds a wide range of programs, focusing on family support, hospitals, education and recreation.
Trying to keep optimism and happiness at the front line, there are also programs that offer support at each stage.
Whether it’s the kind we experience ourselves or of those around us, there’s undoubtedly a lot of sorrow, pain and struggle in this world.
At the very least, we know that there are plenty of opportunities for putting compassion and love into action.
There are so many amazing, determined organizations like Camp Quality to who would welcome our help.
Kids Business Communications hosts the Bloggers BBQTM series of events where bloggers and brands meet and mingle. These events also raise awareness and funds for different charities. For more information www.kidsbusiness.com.au
Are you involved with a charity or non-profit organisation? If you had all the money and time in the world, how would you feed your passion?
Joining Essentially Jess for #IBOT
I loved this post Grace. I started volunteering exactly a year ago, and what has surprised me most is that while I thought I was doing it for others, I am also doing it for myself. I love it despite the challenges, and I often feel overwhelmed, but I can’t see myself stopping any time.
ana recently posted..Family favourite: Spaghetti Bolognaise
I love this post Grace.
As a life coach I strongly encourage that everyone fill in the “contribution” quadrant of their life by volunteering even just a smidge of their time to others. It increases the sense of worth in both the giver and receiver and a whole bag full of other wonderful benefits for all involved.
Very fulfilling.
L
Leanne @ Deep Fried Fruit recently posted..Day 1959 – The benefits of bike riding
At least you’ve started! 🙂 Not involved with any charity but I’d like to volunteer with underprivileged kids one day.
Ai Sakura recently posted..I Love You Today – Original Song by Lil Pumpkin
I need to get a regular volunteering gig – I’ve been much more sporadic helping out on fundraisers/projects rather than longer term. Glad you are still managing to fit your volunteering in with your new part-time job and busy new schedule.
Kathy recently posted..How to harness your superhero power
Lady, you are awesome. I’m really keen to do some regular volunteering too. Fitted for work sounds awesome x
Bele @ BlahBlah recently posted..5 Top tips for thrift shopping
If we can all do a little bit it will make a BIG difference, this year I’m taking part in Walking in her Shoes, it’s about time I was the one exercising instead of just sponsoring right?!
Emily @ Have A Laugh On Me recently posted..You’ve got it good.
That quote would have to be one of the most motivational and inspiring quotes around. Only good can come from helping others. Fantastic Grace.
Good on you:) I volunteered at the Amnesty International reception every Friday for my first year of uni. It was a great experience. I don’t have the time now but I do give to KIVA, a microfinance group.
Bec @ Seeing the Lighter Side of Parenting recently posted..Where has Bec gone? (and some very funny blogs)
I’m very keen to get involved in some form of charity work once both the girls are off to school. I’d love to volunteer photography service to charities like Heartfelt Photography and other organisations> I figure if I spend so much time pursuing something for me, that I love, then it’s only right that I then put that learning and time to good use by helping others with it.
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You’re awesome, Grace! Giving to others gives so much back to ourselves, doesn’t it? I used to do hand and feet massages at a retirement home, and I’m sure it was just as positive for me, as it was for the lovely oldies x
Lisa@RandomActsOfZen recently posted..“Green Tea For Me”on Pinterest
I think it is really important that people give back to others when they are in a position that gives them the time to do so. It doesn’t have to cost money to give, to help, to make someone elses life a little easier.
Malinda @mybrownpaperpackages recently posted..Painted Pots
I’m not involved with any particular one, but I try and give to many when I can.
There are so many worthwhile ones, I just don’t know which one to support most.
EssentiallyJess recently posted..Dear ABC… #IBOT
Volunteering is so wonderful. I used to work for Camp Quality it’s such a wonderful organisation and do so much to bring fun to children with cancer and their families.
Have a lovely weekend.
Julie
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I would love to do more for charity or volunteer. At present all I do is sponsor a girl in India. But I really want to do something more if you know what I mean…just not sure whether it’s with women, girls or animals! And of course, where I’ll find the time. It’s great that you are doing something so worthy…
Sanch @ Living my Imperfect Life recently posted..On Compassion #1000speak
A really heartfelt read Grace. I’ve volunteered once in a deaf school and the experience was life changing. Helping them is a family goal now. No matter what state you’re in, it will be all about putting compassion and love to action.