Guest Blog: Why I Volunteer With Gracias

By Rachel Crowther (Reposted from The Gracias Foundation, now called Global Gratitude Alliance)

Rachel is our administrative and social media wonderwoman. We are so grateful for her passion, writing talent, eagle eyes when it comes to editing and design, and for spreading the word about everyday activism. Her son, Jack, also volunteered with Gracias in Kenya earlier this year, proving that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree...

There’s been a lot in the blogosphere and social media recently about finding your passion and pursuing it in your working life to be happy and fulfilled. I was coming to the end of a part-time job but needed somewhere to be in addition to roles as an expat wife, mum and school volunteer. Something inspiring which would let me use my creativity. Helping with a project that has a social conscience and makes a difference.

Volunteering with The Gracias Foundation has given me the opportunity to do this. For a few hours a week I can give my time and make a small contribution to an organisation which is having a big impact on individuals’ lives.  I’ve rediscovered my love of writing and indulge my passion for reading, and finding interesting articles and info to tweet. 

But it’s also giving back so much more.  I‘m learning about international development through newspaper articles, Twitter and Facebook, and can see so many forces for good in what is often portrayed in the media as an evil, destructive world. I’ve found I can ask people for help and advice, and people are willing to give freely of their time to help a charitable foundation and me personally. I’m starting to think about the idea of giving with gratitude and practicing gratitude, the first stumbling steps on the path to a more positive attitude. 

So want to find your passion? Volunteer in whatever field interests you. You can make a difference by committing even a small amount of your spare time. You’ll change lives, of others and your own.