By Karen Hatfield
Special to The SUN
Most of us believe in helping and contributing to an organization that has a mission statement compatible with our own values.
We celebrate being in solidarity with a cause and welcome the ability to share the human experience with someone who truly needs assistance.
Recent data has confirmed that volunteering is not only good for the soul, but also good for the body. The health benefit of being involved in some altruistic activity seems to contribute to longevity and life satisfaction for those who donate more than a hundred hours a year. Those who have suffered heart attacks are encouraged to become involved in volunteer activities as part of recuperation to help restore self-confidence, decrease social isolation and reduce residual pain.
In short, stepping outside of our own limitations and embracing the needs of someone else, may have the unforeseen benefit of creating a stronger support system. Volunteering is the glue that holds a community together.
Archuleta County Victim Assistance volunteers donate over a thousand hours every quarter to respond to crisis calls involving domestic or sexual violence. Free training classes begin March 26. Take a risk for your health and learn a new skill in the process! Call Karen at 264-9075.
High school prom is coming up, along with the long-awaited signs of spring. ACVAP will again host Operation Cinderella, a yearly formal dress exchange for any girl going to prom. Dresses are collected and displayed at the high school and youth center for anyone’s selection to help create the best of memories for a special night. Along with the boutique, information is provided on healthy dating relationships, based on respect. ACVAP would love to give away over 100 dresses this year, topping our last year’s goal of 80. Donations of gently-used dresses and accessories are always welcome and can be dropped off at the Department of Human Services, 551 Hot Springs Blvd. during business hours.
