“Why Do We Volunteer?” By Tom Franke, Stoughton RSVP Volunteer Driver
Most volunteers are awakened by a voice within that tells us that we have a need to give back to our community, our neighbors, the forgotten, and those in need. We look at the fortunate lives we live, making a decision to give back. RSVP provides us with an opportunity to fulfill this need. As a driver for those who require transportation to and from medical appointments, I satisfy that need that lies within.
To the client, the ride is not just a transport to and from a medical appointment, it is an opportunity to engage another human in conversation (they seem to look forward to this event as a rare chance to communicate with others). To the driver it is a fulfillment of a pledge to help others in need. He/she is the recipient of a feeling of accomplishment and the knowledge that they have made our world a tiny bit better.
So who gains from this encounter? The answer is both. The rider gets to a much needed appointment and is given an often rare opportunity to converse with another human; and the driver fulfills his/her need to provide a compassionate activity by helping others. Lucky us!
Volunteer RSVP drivers are needed in Stoughton! As an RSVP driver you’ll receive mileage reimbursement, extra accident and liability insurance coverage, and the satisfaction of knowing that you are helping others. Please contact Mary Schmelzer for details at (608) 441-7896 or mschmelzer@rsvpdane.org.
