Service Unites

We like to write a little something once a week or so about someone or an organization that is making a difference in the world we live in. This is a strong thread that weaves its way through all of Keller Williams marketplaces, teams, and agents. These days there is plenty of material to choose from, and yet is it really something most of us include (volunteering to help others) in our daily lives? Do we really know who are role models are for uniting us as citizens into volunteering to address critical needs and improving our community? Here are a few quotes and thoughts on volunteerism from some well-known people.

Role Models

• “We understand that we have a fundamental responsibility to use our scale, global reach, and yes, even our capital to support and invest in our community.” Peter Scher, Executive VP, Head of Corporate Responsibility, JP Morgan Chase & Company

• “Volunteerism is the optimum” -Bill O’Reilly, FOX News

• “How can we mobilize volunteers the way we mobilize voters?”Karl Rove and David Plouffe share tactics from both sides of the aisle: it’s about speed, authenticity, and efficacy. “respect, empower, include.”

• "Be of service. Whether you make yourself available to a friend or co-worker, or you make time every month to do volunteer work, there is nothing that harvests more of a feeling of empowerment than being of service to someone in need." - Gillian Anderson  actress

Finding Your Volunteer Niche

If you are wondering about what might be of interest to volunteer with than go to the United Way HandsOn of Savannah a direct service of the United Way of the Coastal Empire. “United Way HandsOn Savannah (HOS) helps individuals, families and corporate and community groups find

flexible volunteer opportunities at more than 200 service organizations and schools in our four county area.” At the HandsOn website one can browse by Partner Organizations that you might be interested in helping, or by opportunities. If you are thinking of volunteering but are not sure how to get started? It’s best to do some research first. Look for an organization that deals with issues about which you feel strongly. Then consider the skills you have to offer. Some opportunities involve some training, this can provide one with a great learning experience. Make sure you don’t over commit yourself, these organizations depend heavily on their volunteers. Finally some wise advice from the HandsOn organization: “Bring your heart and your sense of humor to your volunteer service, along with the enthusiastic spirit which is, in itself, a priceless gift. What you'll get back will be immeasurable!”

 Just Do It!

The Don Callahan Real Estate Group will be volunteering on Sept. 7^th at the Surfers for Autism fundraising event at Tybee beach.  The Surfers for Autism mission is to unlock the potential of people with developmental delays, support advocacy for autism issues and scientific research. Don and the team feel strongly about giving back to our community, and this is an annual event that the team participates in. The Don Callahan Real Estate Group also gives a percentage from each transaction of the year to Surfers for Autism.  

“Research has shown that people who volunteer often live longer.” - Allen Klein (author)