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Recognizing April is Global Volunteer Month, I am reminded of President George H.W. Bush's profound words: "There can be no definition of a successful life that does not include service to others." This sentiment resonates deeply with the spirit of our great city and serves as a call to action for all Fort Worth residents.
Michael D. Crain
In these uncertain times, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the challenges we face. However, we must remember that there are always opportunities to make a positive impact in our community. Volunteering is not just an act of kindness; it's a powerful force that can transform lives, including our own.
The beauty of volunteering lies in the numerous ways it allows us to engage with our community. Whether you're passionate about education, healthcare, environmental conservation, or supporting the arts, there's a cause that needs your unique skills and perspective. From mentoring children to assisting at animal shelters, from helping at food banks to supporting local cultural events, the possibilities are endless.
Volunteering brings numerous benefits, not just to the recipients of our service but to volunteers themselves. It provides a sense of purpose, improves self-esteem, and offers opportunities to develop new skills. Moreover, it's a fantastic way to meet like-minded individuals and build lasting friendships. In a world where social connections are increasingly digital, volunteering offers authentic, face-to-face interactions that enrich our lives and strengthen our community bonds.
For those concerned about the economic impact of their efforts, consider this: every volunteer hour equates to $31 of paid time for a nonprofit organization. This means that when you give your time, you're not just offering your skills and energy — you're providing tangible, financial support to causes that matter. In essence, volunteers are the lifeblood of many nonprofit organizations, enabling them to extend their reach and impact far beyond what their budgets would otherwise allow.
Fort Worth has always been a city of doers and dreamers, people who roll up their sleeves and get to work when they see a need. Today, I'm calling on all of you to rekindle that spirit. Let's once again engage, give back, and find purpose in helping others. Whether you can spare an hour a week or a day a month, your contribution matters.
Remember, as President Bush wisely noted, "Every problem that the country faces is being solved in some community by some group or some individual." In Fort Worth, we have numerous organizations doing incredible work, from the Tarrant Area Food Bank to the Fort Worth Animal Care and Control, from the Center for Transforming Lives to the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, just to name a few. These organizations, and many others, are always in need of volunteers to support their missions.
In times of uncertainty, it's natural to feel helpless. But by volunteering, we take control of our ability to make a difference. We become active participants in shaping the future of our city and the lives of our fellow citizens. As we serve others, we often find that we're the ones who benefit most — gaining perspective, gratitude, and a renewed sense of purpose.
So, I challenge each of you: Find your cause. Dedicate your time. Be a point of light in our community. Whether you're a student, a working professional, or a retiree, there's a place for you in the volunteer landscape of Fort Worth. Your skills, your passion, and your time are valuable resources that can make a real difference.
In conclusion, let's honor the legacy of service championed by leaders like President Bush. Let's show the world what Fort Worth is made of. Together, we can build a stronger, more compassionate community — one volunteer hour at a time. Because in Fort Worth, we understand that a truly successful life is one lived in service to others.
Michael D. Crain is a member of the Fort Worth City Council.