Find Ways to Improve Community During National Volunteer Week, April 6-12

From April 6-12, 2014, the B.R. Ryall YMCA of Northwestern DuPage County will recognize National Volunteer Week – a time to thank individuals who dedicate themselves to helping strengthen their communities. As the Y joins the nation in recognizing and celebrating volunteers, it also encourages everyone to find ways to give back and make a difference.

“Volunteering and giving back are critical to helping more individuals and communities be healthy, connected and secure,” said Michelle Daniels, Interim CEO/COO, B.R. Ryall YMCA. “At the Y, volunteers help drive our cause of strengthening community by nurturing the potential of youth, improving the nation’s health and well-being and supporting our neighbors. The programs and services we offer to men, women and children of all ages are made possible in large part by volunteers who donate their time and talents.”

The Y, one of the leading nonprofits and volunteer organizations in the country, offers individuals and families opportunities to volunteer in ways that let them connect and develop meaningful relationships, all while making an impact in communities they care about. Here in Northwestern DuPage County, the Y relies on more than 100 volunteers to help make our annual 5K race, Race to Ryall, a success. Proceeds from the race benefit the Y’s scholarship program to ensure everyone, regard less of age, income or background, has the opportunity to be part of the Y family. Many more opportunities exist for others to help make a difference.

National Volunteer Week is a great time to get involved. Here are five ways individuals can take an active role at the Y and in their community:

1.    Be a part of the action by volunteering your time at a special event. Our next volunteer opportunity is the Race to Ryall 5K on May 17, 2014 and we are still recruiting volunteers for this event.

2.    Coach a sports team, teach a class or ask about other ways to get involved with a program of your interest.

3.    Help with fundraising efforts to ensure that essential programs and services are accessible to everyone in need.

4.    Get involved with a mentoring or tutoring program to help motivate and encourage youth to reach their potential.

5.    Inspire others to find ways they too can give back to the community. 

Each year, more than half a million people volunteer their time to the Y. Whether developing skills or emotional well-being through education and training, welcoming and connecting diverse demographic populations through global services, or preventing chronic disease and building healthier communities through collaborations with policy makers, the Y fosters the care and respect all people deserve.

To learn more about volunteer opportunities at the B.R. Ryall YMCA or the sign-up to volunteer your time for the Race to Ryall, contact Linda Sewart at 630.858.0100 or lsewart@ryallymca.org.