How do you define your purpose as a volunteer?

This was a discussion question for the Volunteer Advisory Council. Based on the discussion, we agreed there is definitely a place for everyone in our volunteer community, for all roles and levels of involvement.

It is important to recognize and respect what everyone can contribute in terms of time, talent and interests. For example, you might volunteer at a PanCAN PurpleStride event, attend PurpleLight, or choose to contribute by holding a leadership position. We draw upon the skills everyone brings to the organization.

Adding something meaningful to our lives helps to fuel passion, whether it is in a job or volunteer position. Having a purpose may be an important part of one’s value system. It is what drives us to volunteer, and the motivation is much higher when you know you have a chance to make a difference.

Being a part of an organization that is patient-focused makes our purpose even more impactful. Our personal volunteering efforts often grow beyond the role itself. Many of us began our volunteer journey to honor a loved one, but as we got more involved in the affiliate community, we became more passionate about helping others, including people we will never meet.

One way to raise awareness and connect with other volunteers is by reaching out to a Team Captain before PurpleStride or sending a note to a survivor or their caregiver. These actions might seem small, but they create the big picture. The way that we have and will continue to make a difference is by enhancing our connections and drawing on our own personal experiences.

As we approach Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month in November, we can look to volunteers who will raise awareness in their own communities, religious institutions, or place of work.

Just as a child plays with blocks and has pride in their achievements, we as volunteers need to remember the foundation and building blocks of our efforts. Each block is critical to the structure we create. Together, we can achieve much more than is possible alone. We build upon our strengths as a team.

I encourage other affiliates to use this activity with their volunteers. It can prove helpful for engaging in a conversation with your affiliate volunteers.