Most of us remember the story of the man walking along the beach, watching a young boy throw stranded starfish back into the water. As the boy tossed one after another back into the surf, the man approached him and said, “Son, you can’t possibly get all these starfish back into the sea…all your effort won’t make any difference.” The boy, tossing yet one more starfish, replied, “It made a difference to that one.”
This is the message that many people who make a habit of volunteering understand; it’s not always possible to help many at once. Rather than not doing anything at all, they know that one small act often makes a big difference to someone, and that’s often enough.
That is also the message of the annual “Make a Difference Day,” hosted by the Points of Light Foundation and USA Today, which will be observed this year on Sunday, October 25th. This day typically sees people across the nation engaged in helping their communities and their people, understanding that one day might not change the fabric of need, but it will make a difference to someone.
For just one day, thousands will participate in projects such as collecting for food drives, cleaning up parks and playgrounds, repairing homes for the elderly, collecting coats and shoes to be repurposed…the list is endless. And at the other end of this incredible effort are those who are hungry, or homeless, or both; seniors whose houses need winterizing and outdoor cleanup; families for whom warm coats or new shoes for their children are just out of reach; even abandoned pets needing rescue. On the other side of those needs is someone who organizes a that coat drive; someone who installs the weather-stripping and insulation around old doors and windows; someone who rakes the leaves and cleans the gutters; and someone who packs boxes with healthy, satisfying food for a nearby food pantry.
Volunteering…giving time, effort, and care…is one of the greatest gifts anyone can give – or receive. And while donating just one day may not solve all the needs of the world, it will make a difference to someone…maybe that someone will be you.
For more information on Make a Difference Day, and for volunteer opportunities in your area, go to http://www.pointsoflight.org/signature-events/make-difference-day. Or organize a small act in your own neighborhood that will help someone who needs it. You’ll definitely gain more than you give.
By Kathleen Donnelly
Kathleen is the Director of Volunteer Services at the Gurwin Jewish Nursing & Rehabilitation Center.
