APRIL 2021

If the pandemic has taught us nothing, it has taught us how to appreciate the time that we have and to truly relish the freedom to spend that time in whatever ways are most fulfilling to us. When we look at the many volunteers who freely give their time to the Institute, we are overwhelmed. The group of volunteers who support our work do so from a passion for Arts, Culture and the Environment. Their gift of time, energy, ingenuity and heart makes the Institute what it is. We truly could not do this work without them and want to use this space to share gratitude for their contributions!

As this month is volunteer appreciation month, we want to call out and recognize how integral volunteers are to who we are as an organization by sharing the past, present and future of our volunteer program. 

PAST

Volunteers have always been a part of who we are and what we do. When the Institute began, there was a volunteer board, so the history of our organization proves that volunteers are woven in the fabric of our existence. As the organization grew into its 15th year, several functions of the board were moved to staff members in order to decrease individual volunteer liability AND to lessen liabilities for the organization. This was a strategic move for the organization but cut down on volunteer opportunities.

PRESENT

Currently, volunteers serve as our Board of Directors, Advisory Board and other committee members. They assist with fundraising, strategic planning, provide recommendations and feedback to program plans. They’ve worked and served THROUGHOUT the pandemic -- giving of their time even amongst unprecedented unrest. 

These key groups have grown and changed a lot in the last two years and we are very proud of the flexibility that they have shown as we have refined their purpose and function. There has been a lot of work done to formalize the board into one focused on governance not execution. Committees have also been given more structure so that they can better hit their goals and objectives. Now that that groundwork is complete, we are implementing exciting plans to grow the volunteer program by creating more opportunities for individuals to plug in outside of those structures. One idea currently in development is a Native Species Garden. We are excited to welcome volunteer support to both develop and maintain the garden AND build awareness about the project. 

FUTURE

If you read this and are excited to join our work in a volunteer capacity, we would love to hear from you! Micheal Bettis of AIR Serenbe described our ideal volunteer well. “Someone who is excited about the work, offering to assist in any way they can. If they can’t provide a service, they can still act as a connector or fundraiser, but someone who is willing to help grow the organization.” If that’s you, please reach out to Erika Mims to express interest and learn more about the nomination process involved in serving on a committee or board. You can also let Erika know if you are interested in serving in a more hands-on capacity. The Native Species Garden project is an upcoming opportunity but no matter what your interest, our staff would love to meet with you to learn more about you and find an appropriate avenue for you to express your passion for our shared work.

When you volunteer with us, you are showing how much you value Arts, Culture and the Environment. In turn, you get an up close and personal look at our programs and Divisions and have the chance to grow your knowledge and access. You also get the satisfaction of knowing that your gift of time is helping the institute to grow. As you learn our work, our staff and our story, you are well positioned to become an advocate and champion. When you share your experiences, your story becomes part of our story and it reaches more and more members of our communityーfurthering our reach. 

We are grateful for the many ways that volunteers have gotten Serenbe to where it is today. This quote from John Welker, the Artistic and Managing Director for Terminus is a beautiful summary of our organizational outlook this volunteer appreciation month. “In recognition to all our generous volunteers who give their time, talent, and voice in the service of our programs, we humbly and enthusiastically thank you! Your values have led to action in the service of our mission and your community.  We celebrate you as the reason for our success!"

Get in touch with us if you want to find a way to plug in or want to share your volunteer story!