Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Every Little Thing by April Jeppson

I just read something that said only 23% of Americans volunteer. There has been a steady decline over the last 30 years and currently we are at an all time low. The average amount of time per week, for those that do volunteer, was about 3.5 hours. This information brought all sorts of thoughts to mind.

But April, I don’t have time to volunteer.

Yes you do.

I’m normally Switzerland. I keep my opinions to myself and rarely pick sides. What I think about most things doesn’t really matter. I’m not a keyboard warrior. I don’t believe it’s my job to convince or persuade you that I’m correct. We are allowed to be friends and hold different viewpoints.

But not on this. This is the hill I’ll die on. You do have time to volunteer, and it’s probably the best thing you’re not doing.

I barely know my brother-in-law, but I know he told my husband this 25 years ago. If you’re feeling sad, or sorry for yourself, the best thing you can do is go help someone else. I’m not saying you can’t cry or feel sad from time to time. It’s healthy to go through the emotions. What I’m saying is stop wallowing, get out of your house and be a useful member of society.

I remember staying home with three young children and worrying about bills. I was stressed and tired and really craving some adult time. I had the opportunity to bring dinner to a new family in town. I’m sure I didn’t want to do it because I was stressed and tired, but I sucked it up and did it anyway. A week or two later the family told me how much they appreciated the meal and how welcomed it made them feel.

At a time when I was struggling, I realized I was still able to help others. That small act of service may have helped me more than it helped them. It lifted my spirits and reminded me of my self worth. I was more than just the struggles I was going through. I was someone who could make a positive impact on those around me.

I can’t count all the times I’ve been blessed because others gave of their time.

Picking up litter on the highway or helping coach youth sports. Sitting with the elderly or bringing a meal to a family in need. Stacking food at the pantry or ensuring the PTO runs smoothly.

In fact all of those who serve on boards or committees — I’m not sure if people realize how crucial of a role that is. There are many boards and service clubs in our community who are actively looking for volunteers to help guide the work of their organization.

Back to what I was saying.

The world would be a better place if everyone volunteered. I’m not recommending the average 3.5 hours a week, I’m asking you to only find an hour. For me, that would mean giving up an episode of Master Chef. Or perhaps scrolling the internet a bit less. The sacrifice will look a little different for everyone, but I promise you it’ll be worth it.

I know that if everyone volunteered for just one hour a week, we would feel the positive impact almost immediately. People would get to know each other better. Friendships would be made and networks would grow. We’d be a more compassionate, understanding and grateful community. With such a small act, we’d raise the frequency of our entire town.

Albert Lean April Jeppson is a wife, mom, coach and encourager of dreams. Her column appears every Saturday.