These are the evidence. Without them there is no message. This small group represent the masses of unsung givers within our communities. Collectively they confirm that serving is worthwhile.
Make no mistake, these volunteers didn't agree to give me their time and faces just for a 'Thank You'. It is important to appreciate the work all volunteers do, however the mission of this project is to cast a light on Volunteerism by volunteers themselves. From first-time volunteer to multi-decade veterans. From student to retirees. They are here to tell you that it's worth it. That it's better to live a life that includes loving and serving.
Collectively they help the hurting, the weak, the hungry, the hopeless, the small, and the lonely. They provide encouragement and hope through the skills, time, and attention
they give. They bare witness that it's hard work and sacrifice, but to also tell you it's fun and fulfilling! They have made amazing friendships. They have gained purpose and meaning. They laugh more... they see more. And they have learned there is no limit to the human heart. Join us. Wear the color that NEVER goes out of style...
the new BLACK— VOLUNTEERISM.
Collectively they help the hurting, the weak, the hungry, the hopeless, the small, and the lonely. They provide encouragement and hope through the skills, time, and attention
they give. They bare witness that it's hard work and sacrifice, but to also tell you it's fun and fulfilling! They have made amazing friendships. They have gained purpose and meaning. They laugh more... they see more. And they have learned there is no limit to the human heart. Join us. Wear the color that NEVER goes out of style...
the new BLACK— VOLUNTEERISM.
C U R A T O R I A L B I O S N A P S H O T S
America's Grow-a-Row, Community Food Bank of NJ, Foundation of Orthopedics and Complex Spine, Clean Ocean Action, St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center
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Beginnings: “I first began volunteering in Girl Scouts during elementary school, around 1999. I have continued throughout the last 18 years. Our troop (led by my mom) made sandwiches for the homeless through Bridges Outreach in Summit, NJ. I was always encouraged by my parents to volunteer.”
Reasons: “It is fulfilling to help fight for the causes and organizations close to my heart, and to know that I make a difference in someone’s life.” Blessings: “Volunteering has opened my mind to the struggles others face and has made me look past differences —to simply see the person within. I also learned how to be alright doing dirty and difficult work, and now don’t shy away from challenging opportunities. Among many other things, a life that includes volunteering has given me the ability to be diverse in outlook, attitude, and heart.” Encouragement: “We all have boundaries about what we don’t feel comfortable with, and that’s OK. So choose what you are comfortable doing and giving. Move beyond fear and try it. You may be very surprised how passion and belief for a cause or injustice will fuel you to do what you may have presumed was tedious or unpleasant. Our fears of the unknown makes things look larger than they really are.” See painted likenesses here. |
Habitat for Humanity
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Beginnings: “My first act of volunteering was as a young lad, when I helped a little old lady cross the street (I’m serious). In 2007 my employer set up a volunteer team to help a non-profit build homes. In 2011 I retired and have continued on my own to help construct housing for those striving for the American dream of home ownership.”
Reasons: “I follow the rule that it is better to give than to receive. Volunteering hasn’t changed me because it’s what I do and who I am.” Blessings: “It’s a two way street. It seems you can’t give without getting. I’m able to leave each project with a feeling of “mission accomplished!” Encouragement: “Volunteerism comes naturally to people all over the world. You can be one of those people.” |
Meals on Wheels, South Ridge Community Church
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Beginnings: “I started with Meals On Wheels. I’ve also been a Brownie and Girl Scout Leader, taught Sunday School, and helped pack care packages for over seas soldiers.”
Reasons: “I like helping others and being part of something that can make a difference in a person’s life in small ways. It’s a good feeling when I’ve helped someone. It enriches my life to know that perhaps I’ve helped them get through a tough time. The Lord’s goodness to me is an opportunity to bless someone else's life.” Blessings: “I enjoy being with others that have the same common interest and heart to help make others feel good. As a greeter at church I’m happy to make people from all walks of life feel welcome. It is better to give than to receive.” Encouragement: “I know the unknown can be scary, but consider that those you are helping are actually helping you. They help you feel pride and fill a space in your heart that can only be filled by giving. It will enrich your life and keep you young!” |
Trout Unlimited, Habitat for Humanity
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Beginnings: “Volunteering began for me when I was looking for something meaningful and productive to do in my retirement years. I wanted to be active and give back to the community. Habitat for Humanity fit in perfectly with what I was looking for.”
Reasons: “Volunteering has also allowed me to continue experiencing a sense of accomplishment. After working hard my entire professional career, I knew I needed to do something that would maintain that sense of accomplishment. Helping others gives me purpose and satisfaction, knowing I am helping someone else.” Benefits: “I have really become close to many of the core volunteer team members that I volunteer with. We all pull together and work for a common cause. It is something about working with individuals who are there by choice to achieve something selfless versus to get a paycheck.” Encouragement: “Don’t let the unknown deter you. Come out and give it a try. There is no expectation for you to have perfect skill or a lot of experience, just a lot of heart. There are seasoned volunteers who will help you. Remember, we enjoy helping!” |
Hanover Elementary School, Trinity United Church of Christ, Habitat for Humanity, Dryland United Church of Christ
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Beginnings: “I started volunteering in 1980 when I was asked to help. Growing up I also witnessed my father’s generosity. I figured it was for me after seeing my brother, his friends, and family-friends all helping one another.”
Reasons: “I work a full time job, yet volunteering still provides a good sense of accomplishment. The comradery is uplifting, fun and supportive. Your self esteem grows. I am also more physically active because of how I choose to give.” Blessings: “I have learned the great value of trusting others’ ideas. Friendship is more important than being right. I am a happier person because I volunteer. I know I have more sense of purpose with it in my life.” Encouragement: “I know it can be scary: ‘Do I have the time?’, ‘Will I be welcome?’, ‘Will I make a difference?’ Get out of yourself and take the plunge. Besides, with more coffee you can do anything!” See painted likenesses here. |
Musikfest, Zoellner Arts Center, Habitat for Humanity, Miller-Keystone Blood Center, Miller Symphony Hall
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Beginnings: “Volunteering started for me in 1995, when a friend found himself working alone to clean up trash at a local outdoor event. I joined him so there would always be at least two of us. That just made sense to me.”
Reasons: “I have learned to better work with others and can apply those lesson in other areas of life, personal and professional. Someone in the group has a strength that fits your weakness.” Blessings: “While I give without the motive, it is gratifying to be appreciated for what I do. There is great satisfaction in helping others and working with good people.” Encouragement: “No one should ever wonder what they will do in retirement. Stay active, volunteer.” See painted likenesses here. |
"Volunteering reminds me to walk in other people’s shoes,
be thankful for the blessings in my life, and encourages me
to have additional empathy towards others."
—Paul S
be thankful for the blessings in my life, and encourages me
to have additional empathy towards others."
—Paul S
Northampton Community College, LV Preferred Cycling Center, Habitat for Humanity, Mothers of Preschoolers
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Beginnings: “I began volunteering at 13 years of age. I babysat young children for MOPS, Mothers of Preschoolers.”
Reasons: “At one point I was getting paid to help at church, however as time passed I became more interested in donating my time instead. I overheard others talking about their ‘volunteered time’, it was an idea that hadn’t crossed my mind yet. That’s when I became aware of the impact of volunteerism.” Blessings: “When I reflect and compare how I feel afterwards, giving versus being compensated, it’s an amazing difference. My volunteering experiences have taught me to acknowledge, appreciate and respect everyone. To take time to understand their story. Everyone deserves to have a happy, healthy life. The gratitude I have received from volunteering is priceless.” Encouragement: “Has a friend ever come to your aid for anything? How would it have been for you if you had not had the extra hand? Give that back to others. Or perhaps you have had to struggle with no help, then you can relate to many who endure the same. This is your opportunity! Volunteering is a giant step in the right direction and makes a huge impact on our community. Love one another!" See painted likenesses here. |
America’s Grow-A-Row, Young Life,
Boston University, Billy Graham Association, New Providence Presbyterian Church, Millington Baptist Church, South Ridge Community Church, Women’s Walk with Christ 
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Beginnings: "I wanted to help someone the way I had been helped— a bible study leader encouraged me to do the same for others. So in 1984 I taught a Bible Study to another teen through ‘Young Life’.”
Reasons: “I enjoy helping others when I am able. I also meet people from all walks of life. It has gotten me out of my comfort zone.” Blessings: “I have met many people over the 35 years I have volunteered. I’ve learned that God walks with us every step and that He enables us to give to others. I have been stretched and challenged, but mostly blessed by volunteering.” Encouragement: “With the many organizations positioned to help others, you can find opportunities that will not interfere with other life priorities. Volunteering is a worthwhile way to push yourself into new areas, and you will grow in unexpected ways. If I hadn’t volunteered, I think my life would not be as rich.” See painted likenesses here. |
Helping Hands (Lehigh Presbyterian), Habitat for Humanity, First Presbyterian Church Bethlehem
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Beginnings: “My first volunteer experience was around 1974 when my hometown minister asked me to help paint several rooms in a basement of the church. I was in my twenties but enlisted help from my two nephews!”
Reasons: “Helping others. It’s just part of who I am. I’ve gained better workmanship and people skills galore! I volunteer locally but I also do missions trips with groups. This has given me the opportunity to travel and see parts of our great country.” Blessings: “I have grown in patience towards life and my fellow man. Another wonderful thing is learning lots and lots of history by participating in Civil War reenactments. I’ve acquired many new acquaintances and friends!” Encouragement: “Work at finding something appropriate for you. I continually do mission trips to build and renovate homes and can tell you that matching yourself to the proper task will keep you coming back. I’ve seen a lot, many people underrate themselves. I’ve also witnessed those who talked about what they would do but don’t uphold their own convictions. So stay open, but appropriate. Give it a go!” See painted likenesses here. |
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel's Soup Kitchen, Habitat for Humanity, St. Nicholas Church of Walnutport
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Beginnings: “For as long as I can remember I have participated in my church’s activities. Soup kitchens, bazaars, picnics, pro-life participation, etc. On three occasions I went to aid victims of Katrina, and once to help victims of the floods in Iowa. In 1998 I began volunteering to build homes.”
Reasons: “Not only do I get the satisfaction of helping others, but I find I thoroughly enjoy the interaction of other volunteers of like mindedness.” Blessings: “I always believed that helping those in need gives one a better perspective on life. Thinking about others and their needs makes you reflect on how much you yourself have to be grateful for, that which the Lord has provided you in your life. Reflecting on that, for me personally, has reduced focusing on self.” Encouragement: “Consider the valuable friendships you might make, and knowledge you may gain. The knowledge I gained from the many years volunteering enabled me to do all the carpentry, electrical, plumbing, painting, etc. pretty much myself when I built my own home. I did it in six months from scratch with very little contracting help. Some of the friends I made while volunteering even came out to help. Some of the best things can happen when you’re just giving of yourself.” See painted likenesses here. |
Woodside Chapel, Oasis Church, South Ridge Community Church
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Beginnings: “I was 13 when I first started to volunteer. I decided to help out with Vacation Bible School that summer in the nursery. Who can resist all those babies!”
Reasons: “I feel useful when I’m helping, I enjoy that. It provides me with a task I can do with pride while helping someone or an organization’s vision in something I care about." Blessings: “I have gained great memories and learned important life skills like organization and communication. It’s also a great thing to get away from my daily ‘crazy’ and help someone else." Encouragement: “No experience necessary... try it!!! You have more to contribute than you think. You’ll only discover it when you go out and help. Try it!” See painted likenesses here. |
Special Olympics, South Ridge Community Church, Relay for Life
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Beginnings: “I started volunteering when I was real young, through the Girls Scouts around 2009.”
Reasons: “I have always had a passion for helping people. Whenever I do volunteer work, seeing the happiness that it brings to others in need is what brings me joy.. being a light for Christ.” Blessings: “Volunteering has taught me compassion through the importance of not taking what I have for granted. I was raised in a good home, and it’s so easy to forget that some people don’t have it like I do. Volunteering has also helped me decide that I want to major in Special Education in college.” Encouragement: “I know it’s hard to find the time, but consider, those few hours could mean the world to whomever you are helping.” See painted likenesses here. |
US Marine Corps, Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, Habitat for Humanity, Vietnam Veterans of America, Purple Heart Riders, Patriot Guard Riders (Funeral Guard), Victory House, American Red Cross, Miller-Keystone Blood Center
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Beginnings: “Volunteering started for me in the Cub and Boy Scouts
around 1958.” Reasons: “I think it’s in my genes!” Blessings: “It’s great to learn new skills and make friends. I’m healthier because volunteering keeps me active. I also enjoy teaching other volunteers and passing on what I’ve learned. The more you give the happier you feel.” Encouragement: “Slow down. Life is short, its not worth doing something if you don’t enjoy it. Find what you enjoy and you will make the time to volunteer it.” |
South Ridge Community Church, Edna Mahan Woman’s Correctional Facility, Feed-the-Need, United Way, Kings Daughters Daycare, Martin Luther King Youth Center, America’s Grow-A-Row
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Beginnings: “In 2011 I had my first volunteering experience leading children’s worship at Grace Church in Minnesota.”
Reasons: “I volunteer because I believe we are called to love others just as ourselves. I have been blessed so much in my life, so I try to bring comfort, hope and positive relationships to others.” Blessings: “I often find that I am filled with a sense of love and belonging. A feeling of comfort that is just as much, if not more than, those whom I volunteer to serve. This happens many times as I help bring worship opportunity within a correctional facility. It is inspiring to me to serve in this capacity.” Encouragement: “If you are concerned about the time commitment required, volunteer for a small/short activity. Better yet, get connected with a group that volunteers more regularly. It’s a great way to support! Every small act of kindness helps, and collectively we can make a difference!” |
America’s Grow a Row, NJ PIRG, Students2Science, The DaVinci Science Center, Locks of Love, Miller-Keystone Blood Center
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Beginnings: “I began volunteering during college in 1998. I wanted to give but being a student I couldn’t do that financially. Volunteering allowed me to give in a way that fit my circumstances.”
Reasons: “It’s easy to get down when I’ve had a bad day, but volunteering helps keep me grounded. I’ve worked hard to have what I have, but some people work just as hard and still don’t have what I have. Fortunately, I’m not as broke now as I was in college. I now give financially too, but I still like giving of myself because it keeps me connected to what I care about changing in the world.” Blessings: “I enjoy seeing the difference I’m making when I look at what I’ve accomplished and how it benefits others. A by-product is the physical benefits and getting out of the house. I feel a sense of community in a group of people who are working together.” Encouragement: “You can give. I work FT and am now earning my MBA. I’m busy! But what you choose to give to can be something you enjoy and it won’t feel like work. I’ve actually taken a vacation day just to volunteer. I come out of it feeling good. I found an organization that allows me to volunteer without a weekly commitment because that is what I need. You can find an organization and task that fits your circumstances.” See painted likenesses here. |
"I've learned that volunteering is exposure to my community, and to different ways of living. It even exposes me to the deeper me within."
—Melissa G
—Melissa G
South Ridge Community Church
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Beginnings: “I was about 5 years old when I was recruited to be in the choir at church. Later, at 11 years of age I played the drums and guitar as a volunteer.”
Reasons: “Early on I recognized that I wasn’t just playing instruments. Instead, these are God given gifts. That’s my motivator in giving myself to a better calling. Blessings: “Something I never intended was to actually get closer to God. I thought I would just be giving, but in return I’ve felt his very close companionship. To feel him more intimately has been an awesome surprise.” Encouragement: “Move past your fear. You are more capable than you think, you might discover an ability! Volunteering can mean a few hours away from family at times, but that time can refresh you to grant you more quality time with them.” See painted likenesses here. |
America’s Grow-a-Row, Flemington Presbyterian Church, YMCA, Flemington Food Pantry, Mane Stream, American Cancer Society, Salvation Army, Special Olympics, Safe in Hunterdon,
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Beginnings: “Growing up with two mentally challenged brothers taught me I was blessed and to do for the less fortunate. My brother’s teachers were kind and patient. Watching them, and my father as a Boy Scout leader helped shape me. I started volunteering after college in 1976, helping to encourage kids in math. Many experiences, including being one of only 4 black students my freshman year deepened my perspective about being a positive role model. I was no longer satisfied to say I wanted to make a difference, I had to be about the business of actually doing it.”
Reasons: “Nothing significant can be done alone. It is tremendously encouraging when you work with others to give back. I now sometimes wonder if the recipients of aid might one day be me or someone I know. The line between giving help and needing it is very thin —we’re all children of God and deserving of help.“ Blessings: “When I volunteer, I receive as much, if not more, than I give. I would be more selfish if I never volunteered. I live a more meaningful, enriched existence because of volunteering.” Encouragement: “I’ve been volunteering for several decades. Please understand where I’m coming from, it’s about changing thing for the better. If you’re serious about making a positive difference in your community, volunteer. If you don’t volunteer, please stop pretending that you really care about others and stop complaining about certain aspects of the community. Be the positive change you were created to be.” See painted likenesses here. |
Boy Scouts, Southern Lehigh Little League, Southern Lehigh Girls Softball, Habitat for Humanity, Southern Lehigh Football, Southern Lehigh Soccer
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Beginnings: “I started in 1979. My employer allowed us to take equipment home for the purpose of helping others. After that, on my own I helped Boy Scouts, community parks, nature and sports organization with projects.”
Reasons: “I like how it makes others feel. I’m so blessed to have good health that it motivates me to help others who may have less than me and my family. It’s also great to learn how to get along and work with just about anybody! Working along side them, you glean things that can benefit you personally or professionally.” Blessings: “I sleep real good at night. I have learned how to forget about the little things and look at the big picture. Volunteering has made me more objective. There are different ways to do things, different ways to look at things.” Encouragement: “Don’t expect perfection, from others, organizations and especially from yourself. It’s a team effort! It feels great when you do something for people that they can’t do on their own. You have helped make the world a better place.” See painted likenesses here. |
Attend the exhibition and see how some of these
volunteers are interpreted in wood stain.
Experience encouragement and hope through this unique show.
volunteers are interpreted in wood stain.
Experience encouragement and hope through this unique show.
Key Club, Boy Scouts, South Ridge Community Church
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Beginnings: ”I was encouraged to volunteer through the Cub Scout, Boy Scout, and Eagle Scouts. So I started early.”
Reasons: “I have always wanted to make things better than they were. It also gives me the opportunity to see how different people can come together to accomplish a common goal.” Blessings: “God has given gifts and abilities that are valuable, and we need to share them with the world. It’s a real benefit in life to have something you can do with pride and do the job well.” Encouragement: “You have a gift that matters to someone. You have the capacity to help make people in need feel important and loved. Volunteering is your chance to do that.” |
Habitat for Humanity
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Beginnings: “In 1992, after noticing my weekend warrior work, the Monsignor Murphy of St. Thomas More presented me with the idea that volunteering my skills might be a win-win... he was right.”
Reasons: “Using and gaining skills while helping others. I thought that I knew something about carpentry when I started… but I soon found out I did not know that much.” Blessings: “I’ve leaned a lot from some amazing volunteers, past and present. I’ve made some lifelong friends too. I think volunteering makes you a better person, and happier. I don’t know what I would be doing without helping others.” Encouragement: “It can be challenging to find the time, I know. I work a full time job, and have a family and home of my own. Yet I volunteer on a weekly basis. You don’t have to do it every week, just find something you really enjoy doing. Then take the first step and be faithful to what you are passionate about.” See painted likenesses here. |
(I think I was waiting for my father to turn his back so I could swipe the chisel he left behind on the floor.)
Habitat for Humanity, America's Grow a Row, South Ridge Community Church, El Shaddai Bethlehem Church, Christ Church of Rockaway NJ, American Red Cross, Calvary Temple of Wayne NJ, YMCA, Raritan River Music Festival, Star 99.1FM, Acquire The Fire (BattleCry) |
Beginnings: “I volunteered to be a volunteer! My father never had to ask to have a shadow. I wanted to help... I can’t lie, I also wanted the tools! If he had known that tools were the draw he could have gotten me to clean my room.”
Reasons: “To be of service. Often I can’t help but to want to assist (or take over, however you want to look at it). Volunteering also helps me re-focus. Selfishly, when things are going the worst for me I stop and go volunteer. Volunteering is an amazing antidote to selfishness, fear, or discouragement. When I'm at my lowest, I volunteer. At times, I weep in my trouble while I volunteer. I feel purpose and God’s reason. We are his hands and feet.” Blessings: “Admittedly, early on I was just getting my fix of being useful and using some of my skill. Now I find that the people and fellowship are very gratifying to me, on both sides of the coin. Those receiving and those giving. They all have stories and I love, love, love discovering how pieces fit together for the good. The pebble and ripple affect is a marvelous wonder to me. Volunteerism is a humbling and powerful phenomenon.” Encouragement: “You can do it. All the stories above prove that you can. They are no better then you, and you no better than them. Find a way for you AND YOUR FAMILY to volunteer. We can all perhaps give money, but you are the only one who can give of yourself.” |
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C O M R A D E R Y
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Camaraderie is something I can attest to as a benefit of volunteering. I hold so many invaluable humorous moments in volunteering along side others. Many of us will tell you that if we had to volunteer solo all the time we might not do it. Volunteering is serious business for all the needed positive change it can bring, but I simply have to state for the record that working with a bunch of clowns is truly a gift! Here are some of the memorable comments from volunteers when I started pitching my idea
for this project:
“All good here, just make sure you paint my best side!”
“I’m getting my tux ready for your photo shoot. You can count on me.”
“OK, but only if you make me look like George Clooney.”
“Smurf is ok with that.” (inside joke!)
“Always willing to support the Arts Nina.”
“Yeah Sure. But there has to be better looking guys somewhere.”
Volunteer. You won't regret it.
for this project:
“All good here, just make sure you paint my best side!”
“I’m getting my tux ready for your photo shoot. You can count on me.”
“OK, but only if you make me look like George Clooney.”
“Smurf is ok with that.” (inside joke!)
“Always willing to support the Arts Nina.”
“Yeah Sure. But there has to be better looking guys somewhere.”
Volunteer. You won't regret it.
2017 ART EXHIBITION | Sep 3 - Oct 29