Here at Breakthrough T1D, we take special pride in the hundreds of outstanding volunteers who have contributed so generously over the past year and well beyond. This is why we acknowledge National Volunteer Week, April 21 – 27, 2013.
Breakthrough T1D has been steadfast in our mission to fund research to find a cure for type 1 diabetes (T1D) and its complications. Well, those of us on staff cannot singlehandedly accomplish all we have committed ourselves to do in reaching this goal. It takes “an army” of dedicated individuals to put on walks, galas, rides, golf events and myriad Outreach family and adult T1D gatherings. Not to mention folks who are serving on committees or have taken on board responsibilities.
Established in 1974, National Volunteer Week focuses national attention on the impact and power of volunteerism and service as an integral aspect of our civic leadership. The week draws the support and endorsement of President Barack Obama, Congress, governors, mayors and municipal leaders, as well as corporate and community groups across the country.
JDRF’s Volunteer Engagement Program is focused on the value one receives from getting involved at the chapter level in very specific ways. We recognize there are real and tangible benefits for being a volunteer. We endeavor to get to know each and every person who is interested in volunteering. We talk with you about skills and experience. We take into account your background and try to find volunteer opportunities that really fits. Breakthrough T1D views volunteering as a “two-way street.” While we have specific tasks and jobs that need to be accomplished, we want to make sure that at the end of the day, your volunteer experience was a positive one; that you came away with a sense of accomplishment and the satisfaction of knowing you contributed something of yourself. This is the benefit of serving, of volunteering. And we at Breakthrough T1D want to honor that spirit of giving!
Recently in a letter to our organization, Breakthrough T1D International Board of Directors Chairman, Dick Allen, made a very powerful statement: “There are thousands of us doing incredible work for Breakthrough T1D. Our chapter volunteers and staff are our ‘feet on the street’ working for progress toward lessening the burden of T1D until it is removed from the lives of our loved ones.” This is what it’s all about.
So, during National Volunteer Week, come join us. We will be happy to meet you and grateful to put you to work. If you are already a volunteer, thank you! We want you to know that you make a real difference. Tell us your stories; let us know what it’s been like for you to volunteer with Breakthrough T1D.
To get involved as a volunteer right away, CLICK HERE. For additional questions about what we have to offer, contact Marcus Wonacott, Volunteer Engagement Manager, at mwonacott@BreakthroughT1D.org or call 415-597-6312. Also, go to jdrfbayarea.org/get-involved to find out more.
