One of the ways I give back to a community is through volunteering. I don’t donate money but I donate my time and service. One of the things I like about living in the US is their numerous resources to get involved in the community. There are a lot of advertisement asking for volunteers for events and they are well-organized, well-attended, and well-funded. In the Philippines, I get to do this through community dental missions. However because of lack of good organization/system and the uncomfortable working conditions, I always pass up the opportunity.
I get the chance to volunteer for Light the Night event last night. Light the Night is an event organized by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. It is a
walk held at night which pays tribute to those people who are battling cancer. My parents have cancer but theirs are benign but still the idea of someone having cancer is tragic. So I thought that participating in this event would show love and support for those people afflicted with cancer.
Light The Night Walk events are evenings filled with inspiration. Carrying illuminated balloons – white for survivors, red for supporters and gold in memory of loved ones lost to cancer – thousands of walkers – men, women and children – form a community of caring, bringing light to the dark world of cancer. Funds raised by walkers provide: lifesaving blood cancer research, financial assistance to cover patient expenses for transportation, medication and testing, free educational materials and events for patients and their families, local programs such as Family Support Groups and First Connection, a peer-to-peer counseling program, comprehensive, personalized assistance through our Information Resource Center.
Our group was in charge of distributing the balloons. Small light bulbs/blinkers were inserted inside an inflated balloon and the participants get to carry it as they walk 2 miles along a scenic route. It was a memorable sight seeing those balloons light up the night and knowing these people are walking for a good cause. People of different ages walked. Some even brought their kids and babies on strollers. We greeted them on the finish line, cheering and shouting “great job” or “you rock!” and we can see how wonderful they feel because somehow their presence have helped with the fight against the disease.
Volunteering is not an easy job nor it’s a free pass job. I get to work my butt off, stand against the cold, and eat only a plate of pasta. However volunteering brings out a great feeling that says I’m making a difference and I’m part of shaping the community. So whether it’s a small event or a big one, there’s always a need for volunteers and I’m glad that I can be of help.
