In times of widespread crisis, workers may not be essential but volunteers are. Ordinary people are typically the first to assist in a disaster and the last ones to leave. Volunteerism, unlike vocation, demands civic character and exemplifies the ideal of democracy. It acknowledges that the well-being of every individual is integral to the well-being…
Choosing to #BeEssential: An Interview with a Volunteer Tackling Hunger During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Throughout this month, HandsOn Suburban Chicago (HOSC) will be highlighting the altruism the pandemic has inspired by getting to know people who acted on our website’s opportunities to be essential. If you would like to tell your story of volunteering during the novel coronavirus crisis, please email it to jess@handsonsuburbanchicago.org. Meet Meal Delivery Volunteer Liz…
#BeEssential: Finding Purpose in Times of Profound Uncertainty
COVID-19 has opened Pandora’s box. But the global chaos spurred by this virus has also crystallized how interconnected humanity is. Never before in our lifetime have our everyday actions impacted others in such a far-reaching and overwhelming way. (Remember when coughing was just a banal reflex?) Although this new reality can feel paralyzing, we can…
6 Easy Service Learning Lessons to Do with Middle School Kids While at Home
Are you looking for constructive things to do with your kids now that they’re home from school? We have six one-hour service learning lessons for you on topics like social justice advocacy, cultural heritage, and recycling. We designed these lessons for local middle schools over the last couple of years, but they can be adapted for high…
Wheeling Middle School Students Advocate for Social Change
“Thousands of families are separated each year. I never thought mine would be one of them.”
What matters to young people in our northern suburban community? HandsOn Suburban Chicago recently posed this question to students at Jack London Middle School in Wheeling and uncovered how the decisions of elected leaders impact the daily lives of our adolescent neighbors.
Senior Corps-RSVP Volunteers at WINGS Help Provide Defenses Against Domestic Violence
People looking for a few inexpensive clothes to add to their wardrobe, unique household items or toys for visiting grandchildren often check out thrift stores, such as those operated by WINGS (Women In Need Growing Stronger). It’s a fun and economical way to shop, and best of all, the profits from these stores-as the name…
Volunteering in Retirement Brings Multiple Rewards for Senior Corps-RSVP Member
By Janet Souter, Senior Corps-RSVP Member When Mike Mokate retired from his career as an informational technology provider nearly two years ago, like many people, he wanted to spend more time with his family. But he also felt the need for a sense of purpose, a wish to give structure to his day and especially…
Senior Corps-RSVP AARP Tax Aide Goes the Extra Mile
By Janet Souter, Senior Corps-RSVP Member It may sound strange, but Stewart Smith actually enjoys volunteering for a task that most of us dread this time of year. For the past two years, as a Senior Corps-RSVP volunteer for the AARP Tax-Aide program, Stewart has been helping low- to moderate-income seniors prepare their 1040s, which…
