Helping Others Is Very Important

From an early age, I've felt a deep calling to lend a hand and make a difference in people’s lives. My first experience of donating my time was when I was 9 years old and began to volunteer at a local nursing home. I helped in the activities center by spending time with the elderly and providing companionship, playing card games, bingo, delivering mail, and listening to their stories. I quickly learned that my presence was important because many of the residents no longer had family able to visit them on a regular basis. I also discovered that my age was an advantage because for many of the residents, I was the only kid they would see each week.  For some, I was the only kid they had seen in months.  My youth seemed to evoke a more playful side in many of the residents so I was given more purpose and respect at the nursing home than I had imagined. It was empowering to say the least and my first understanding that by giving, you are also receiving.

As I grew older, my commitment to service expanded. One of the most impactful experiences was volunteering at The Painted Turtle, a Serious Fun camp for children with life threatening & debilitating illnesses. Children get to go to camp for free for a week and get to enjoy so many activities regardless of the huge spectrum of limitations and difficulties that they face daily. I’ve met so many incredible kids who have impacted my life greatly and I have continued to volunteer there over the years. The Painted Turtle means so much to me. I even got to work overseas at one of their camps in Ireland.

I've also volunteered at My Friend's Place, a youth homeless shelter in Los Angeles, helping people build self-sufficient lives and at Planned Parenthood, supporting reproductive health. Each place taught me important lessons about compassion and community.

Reflecting on these experiences, I've learned that volunteering is a two way street. While I aimed to make a difference, I gained empathy and resilience. There are countless ways to help in your own community—whether it's volunteering at a shelter or food bank, performing random acts of kindness like paying for the coffee of the person behind you in line, donating clothes to those in need or writing a letter expressing gratitude to a teacher who made a difference in your life. Even small gestures can make a big impact.

For me, helping others is not just something I do—it's honestly a fundamental part of who I am.

If you're thinking about volunteering, I encourage you to take that first step. The rewards are endless—making connections, finding real purpose and feeling fulfilled. Together, we can create a future filled with compassion. 

Volunteering has shaped how I see the world and reinforced my belief in empathy and community. It really continues to inspire me, and I'm grateful for every chance to contribute.

Here is me at The Painted Turtle

xx,

Tallulah