Home About Writers Categories Recent Issues Subscribe Contact File Transfer





Stephanie Webb
Stephanie Webb, for more information about Host Homes, or if you would like to become a Host Home provider, please contact Stephanie Webb, Community Relations Manager at Mosaic, either by email, Stephanie.Webb@Mosaicinfo.org or phone, 620-231-5590. Visit us online at; mosaicinsoutheastkansas.org.
Community
2013-03-01 14:25:31
How do I encourage volunteers with disabilities?
Q-I have a few questions regarding volunteers with disabilities. I have often wondered if individuals with intellectual/physical disabilities enjoy volunteering. What kind of things would they be able to do? How do we approach them if we had an opportunity?
A-Great question! First let me ask you why do you volunteer? What do you get from giving back to your community? I am sure many of these things crossed your mind; fulfillment, accomplishment, team building, networking, socialization, giving to those in need, returning a favor, etc. These emotions and feelings are the same for people with intellectual or physical disabilities. They desire an opportunity to give back to their wonderful and supportive community just as you and I do. Volunteering gives them an opportunity to feel like they are not only giving back to their community but it also provides a sense of accomplishment and importance. It gives them a chance to meet others who have the desire to volunteer as well as the possibility of meeting others and building life long friendships. People with disabilities can do so much more than our community realizes. If needed they are supported by a family member or a staff member in their volunteer duties, so, they can do just about anything anyone else can! Some great volunteer opportunities currently available are, Meals on Wheels, Community Garden, Salvation Army, Food Service, Toy Drives and Special Olympics. We are open to so many more ideas, suggestions and invitations to be a part of our community. The best way to offer a volunteer possibility to someone with intellectual or physical disabilities depends on their situation. If they live at home, you may want to ask their parent how they would feel if you invited their child to be a part of a specific volunteer project. If they live within an agency, you can contact the agency's Community Relations Person and let them know of the opportunity to volunteer and your desire to include them in the volunteer efforts. Most often, the agency will jump at the chance to involve their clients in community events. Friends are a desired commodity for people with disabilities. If you have a project and would like an extra hand or two on your team, please contact a local agency and invite them to be a part of a team, and enjoy the feeling of accomplishment when it is completed.
 
The Q & A Times Journal accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs.Materials will not be returned unless accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Thank you.
 
Wildcard SSL Certificates