Do it for any reason, just do it

This day always invites me to pause and reflect on how my professional journey began—and continues—with the transformative magic of volunteering.

Volunteering is one of those profound experiences you must live to fully grasp. You start with a desire to give, only to realize you've received far more in return. It reshapes you, elevates your spirit, and reconnects you to our shared humanity.

From my early years, I've sought ways to contribute. At school, I volunteered to organize events and trips, unknowingly building the collaborative mindset that would shape my career. But it was in Ecuador, partnering with PLAN International, where I witnessed volunteering's true power. Coordinating groups across 100+ communities, I saw the same three essentials in every participant: passion, a drive to help, and an infectious smile.

That's when it clicked—this human energy is the catalyst for community change and human progress.

For years, I had the honor of promoting volunteering full-time at Idealist.org—an unforgettable experience. I encountered thousands of stories from individuals who unlocked the power of sharing their time, skills, and heart. As I often said: “I was reading a different newspaper!”

I've volunteered dozens of organizations as assistant, mentor, organizer, consultant, and founder—and I'll never stop volunteering.

Organizations have a duty to empower volunteers with the tools, support, and recognition they deserve, whether for simple tasks or complex projects. They are the heartbeat of impact-driven work.

On this International Volunteer Day, my deepest thanks go to those who give their time to uplift others. You are the ones who make our world and planet a little bit better.

To those yet to dive in: Just do it. Try volunteering. Discover its power—for any reason, even seemingly selfish ones. Once it touches your heart, it changes you forever.