Finding Growth Beyond the Role Through Volunteering

When I think about growth, I don’t just picture career milestones or professional achievements. For me, growth often happens in unexpected places, like on a community sports field surrounded by laughter and high-fives. Volunteering with Community Living has been one of those places. It’s where I’ve learned that showing up for others can teach you just as much about yourself.

Cheering for More Than the Score

Every week, I volunteer at recreational activities organized by Community Living in my local area. I join individuals with developmental disabilities to cheer them on during their sports games and help create an atmosphere of encouragement and team spirit. It’s not about winning, it’s about making sure everyone feels included and has fun. I’ve been doing this for about five or six years, and even during times when in-person activities weren’t possible, I joined the virtual engagement team to keep the connection alive through online exercise and stretch sessions.

Why It Matters for My Growth

Spending time as a volunteer gives me a completely different pace from my day-to-day work. At Gallagher, my role often requires deep focus and analytical thinking, but volunteering flips the switch to “fun mode.” The energy and excitement the group brings every week reminds me to stay positive and adaptable. Watching them celebrate milestones, no matter how small, has taught me the value of cheering for progress instead of perfection. That mindset keeps me energized and helps me bring a fresh perspective back to my professional life.

What Keeps Me Coming Back

I started volunteering after learning more about what our local agency offers and wanting to shift my time toward community-based activities. Honestly, I wasn’t sure I had any useful skills to contribute since I’ve never been much into sports. But I quickly realized that the only real requirement was a desire to create a fun, welcoming environment. The laughs and connections we share each week are worth far more than the time I commit. That’s what keeps me coming back, and it’s why I’ve joined committees for other events hosted by the agency.