The Value of Volunteerism
By Bob Isbill, High Desert Branch
CWC Vice President and Public Relations Director
Experts generally agree that the best way to succeed is to surround yourself with great people. How best can we do that? You may think you know someone at the office (whatever “office” may mean in this context) or in your branch of the California Writers Club. Whether you are considering forming a business partnership, developing a professional project, or just contemplating the thought of hanging out together more often, one way to find out more about people is to volunteer with them. Immersing yourself in a temporary project can reveal flaws as well as talents you otherwise would never encounter in a relationship. The simple act of working together to complete a goal can be beneficial in many ways. We bond (or not) in a more meaningful way with the mutual joy of accomplishment. When I have related with others to achieve something together, I have been astounded several times to discover they knew something or knew how to do something that I otherwise would never would have been aware. Discovering the abilities of others is just one byproduct of volunteering. Another obvious reason to “show up” is for our own personal development. It is a safe way to explore your own abilities. Giving time to do something for the general good of a project can be fulfilling in many ways.
I remember a dozen years ago when our High Desert CWC had enormous growth. We went from 14 to 100 members in 26 months. The reasons? Determination not to fail, but to excel was one reason. Another was not caring about who got the credit. Another key factor was establishing to visitors that we were looking for members, not dues payers. We expected them to contribute to our growth and achievement. It was something of a rite of passage. Newbies were expected to join in our success story by sharing their talents and abilities. The outcome was outstanding relationship building. Even today, years later, the close bonding that took place through massive volunteering is present now. Friendships formed are solid and growing stronger. And our branch is still thriving.
One of the things I love about the CWC is the concept of Jack London Awards. They are something of a barometer of how well a branch is doing. For example, if there is a year where no Jack London is given, it is a red flag that either nobody is doing anything or that people are doing a lot without recognition. The Jack London is awarded only once per lifetime, but have you noticed that JL Award winners just keep doing exceptional things over and over again? I recently contacted one of our former members who was a Jack London Award winner. I was not surprised to learn that years later while working for an internationally famous company she has been awarded that organization’s equivalent to our Jack London Award. She knows the value of volunteering and it has paid off all her life.
I find myself writing this on the anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, who is famous for his challenge, “Ask not what your country can do for you but ask what you can do for your country.” Find a need in your branch and fill it. You will discover the value of volunteerism.
Learn more about the CWC at calwriters.org.