Volunteering: Now Even More Important & Rewarding

For nearly 4 years, I’ve been a regular volunteer at the John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove. It’s the perfect place for me to give my time, bringing together my professional skills and my love of birds, nature, art, history and French (Audubon was born in St. Domingue - now Haiti - and emigrated to America from France, BTW). My main volunteer activity is in the role of docent to give tours of the Historic House and the occasional presentation about Audubon’s life. Most recently, I’ve begun giving tours in the persona of John James Audubon.

Ever since necessary shut-downs and social distancing restrictions went into place, I have missed my weekly tours. I have missed sharing Audubon’s story and history with visitors - some who live nearby, some who traveled from across the country or even from abroad.

So, like so many in their day jobs, I’ve also adjusted my volunteer work. Having been laid off, I have some added flexibility in my schedule. So I’ve gone out alone and shot video the Center needs for online use, collaborated with other docents to transcribe 19th century letters and even put my Audubon persona on camera to tell some stories for use on social media channels. Our volunteer crew has started holding Zoom gatherings with key members of staff every two weeks for updates and sharing ideas of how we can support the Center. We all miss that place.

Nonprofit organizations have laid off paid staff in the wake of economic uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. Volunteers can help fill some of the gaps. Not all organizations will be equipped to use volunteers remotely, however. And not all will be willing or able to have volunteers do physical work (while respecting social distancing and other protocols). But some can. So here’s my ask: if you find you have time, considering offering to volunteer somewhere that is meaningful to you. Give a call and leave a message. Shoot them an email. Maybe you can proofread communications, help fix an Excel spreadsheet, edit some video. Who knows!

Of course, they might not be able to use your help. But please give it a try. Or look on LinkedIn for pro bono professional opportunities from organizations like Taproot. VolunteerMatch.com has a bunch of listings, too. Can’t commit time? Consider a donation or two. It doesn’t have to be big. Some nonprofits are struggling and they need help to carry on their work. You could even make a microloan to a small business owner through Kiva.

I’m posting this today because today is the anniversary of John James Audubon’s birth - 26 April 1785. We were supposed to have a party at the Center to celebrate John’s life and art. It was even rumored we would have cake. But, instead of my usual docent shift today, I will spend some time working on a letter transcription and a new presentation that focuses on Audubon as an entrepreneur and marketer we can offer via Zoom. Just a little bit of time here and there gives me a sense of fulfillment, knowing that I am contributing - in some small way - to a truly marvelous organization.

Today, in honor of John’s birthday, please consider how you could support a nonprofit. Give some time. Donate some money. Share a skill. Make a difference.

And if you live near (or even far from!) the John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove, come visit when we reopen. It’s a very special place.

Thanks. And be well.