Day 512

Volunteers are needed in so many facets of life. Hospitals, schools, retirement communities, museums, theaters, zoos and practically any other venue one can think of. Many organizations would struggle financially if they filled volunteer positions with paid staff. Luckily, there are so many wonderful people (a lot of them retired) who are more than happy to give of their time.

There are numerous opportunities for Therapy Dogs in the volunteer world. Of course, we visit schools, hospitals, retirement communities, colleges and any other place needing a little comfort. All of the Therapy Dog Teams we know find their niche and blossom there. My Goldens seem to enjoy any opportunity to share their love and I am in total agreement with them.

People will often ask why volunteering is such a passion for me. Typically, my answer is a surface response laced with humor. "Now that I am retired, I have so much time on my hands." Another reply is "It just keeps me out of trouble." Although there is truth in both statements, the real reasons I embrace volunteering have much more depth.

I volunteer because I love people.

I volunteer because it helps make others happy.

I volunteer to support people when they are sad

or frightened.

I volunteer because it fills my own heart with warmth.

I volunteer because it helps tip the balance of the world towards kindness.

The volunteers we have met are amazing people. They give freely of their talents when they could choose to do something else that would be more self-serving. Down to the last one, they exude warmth and a caring presence.

So, the next time someone asks me why I volunteer, I might respond, "We receive so much joy and gratitude during our visits. Even though we give from our hearts, those vessels are full to overflowing from those we encounter."

When the red bandana comes off the hook, my Goldens fight to place their head in the circle of cloth. I am not sure, but they might just like volunteering more than the person on the other end of the leash!