Yes, Even STB Staff Volunteer!

It's true! Even STB Staff Members get out in their communities and volunteer in a variety of capacities around the state.

I'm a large proponent of volunteering, for any organization, in any capacity.  I think volunteering is good for our personal well being and of course for the well being of others.  It's a way to try new things, build cofidence about your own skills and abilities, have fun, meet new people, and learn more about organizations in your area and how they help others.

A couple of our Explore The Bay Education Staffers recently volutneered at Mystic Aquarium to help with Inuk, the Beluga Whale who has been ill.  Our educators are all trained Marine Mammal First Responders from Mystic Aquarium, so they were more than happy to head down (very early I might add) on a Sunday morning to be of service to the husbandry staff at the aquarium.  (I made sure to think about them and their compassion for Inuk and service to the staff as I was rolling out of bed and lounging in my PJS with my hot tea!! That's how early it was!)

Grainne & Cherisa suiting up to help the MAIFE staff take care of Inuk!

Their service got me thinking about what else our staff members do in their communities to volunteer.  So I took a quick survey of our staff and was amazed by the incredible places they give their time and talents to. 

To name a few:

North Kingstown Free Public Library

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

Mystic Aquarium - cleaning tanks!

Weekly town and coastal cleanups in their community

Common Cause

The Highlander School

Meals on Wheels

Sustainable Harvest International

Volunteer Lacrosse Coach

Camp Ker-Anna

The Traveling Theater
RI Chapter of Surfrider Foundation
Ronald McDonald House

I was so honored to see how many of our staff also give their time to volunteer in their free time and in so many different ways.

For me, volunteering is always a choice at the top of my list.  I like to find organizations that are a good fit for what I'm looking to gain and for what is important in the local area that may need my help. I've served on board committees for groups, I've done marketing and PR work for organizations, cooked, cleaned, answered phones, dressed in costumes, managed birthday parties, you name it - I'll do it.  I'm one of those people that really gets more enjoyment and fulfillment in my life when I volunteer than when I just sit on my couch and watch a movie!

So where do you volunteer??  How has volunteering changed you or impacted your life?