Volunteer to Make a Positive Impact

With the start of a new year, I can’t help but reflect on the gratitude I feel for our community. I think most will agree 2020 was a year like no other––certainly in my lifetime. And while we’ve seen our share of challenges, I am heartened by the ways in which we have all pulled together to make our community stronger.

Because we are a co-op, volunteerism and giving back are a part of who we are. Our very name, Volunteer Energy Cooperative, reflects the spirit of volunteerism that established our co-op 85 years ago.

VEC recently participated in the Tennessee Co-op Day of Service. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, each office held an internal food drive to donate to an agency in its service area. VEC employees donated food to Meigs Ministry, Burke Elementary School BackPack Program, and the Polk County Food Bank.

Several of our employees are volunteer firefighters and first responders, who put their lives at risk for their communities. Others coach youth sports, assist in school productions, or serve on local boards. While it’s difficult to quantify the impact that volunteers have, I know they make a tremendous difference in our community and make our corner of the world a better place.

Many organizations depend on volunteers to fulfill their mission. Volunteers fill in gaps and spread joy and compassion through their efforts. Even assisting with the smallest tasks can make a big impact in the lives of people, animals or an organization in need. Often a big commitment or special skills are not needed, just someone who cares.

I hope you’ll consider volunteering. Give an organization or cause that you care about the gift of your compassion, time, and talent. The gift of volunteerism is a gift that will continue giving all year long.