I never considered myself much of a “joiner.” No particular reason, maybe remnants of shyness when I was younger. (Hard to believe if you know me now.)

When I moved to the area I was looking for something to fill my time. While at a presentation at the library I heard volunteers were needed there. Hesitantly, I met with another volunteer to find out what the volunteers do.

At the time, Penn Kidder Library was completely volunteer, so I discovered that the volunteers do everything. From stocking books to checking out patrons to running the small flea market area in the library. I had fun with the task of arranging the window display with the donated items.

I learned someone needed to do a story time followed by a craft with the kids. I love kids so I’m in! Reading to the children was enjoyable and being creative, not a bit artistic, and planning a craft related to the book I read was fun.

Another library volunteer told me that she’s in a walking group. Asking lots of questions and still not fully invested in joining more groups, I did get my courage and enthusiasm and joined a walk. Little did I know this was much more than a walking group. It was the Friends of Beltzville, a group of volunteers who help take care of the park and hold park events.

The walkers were very easy to talk to. I felt welcomed by everyone and admired the way the chair led the group. It wasn’t long before I was volunteering to help with roadside cleanup, maintaining the pollinator garden at the park and lending a hand for park events.

I felt like part of something bigger than me, and that felt great.

I realized that I wanted to be more involved with volunteering and joined two committees in my community, Aesthetics and the Social committees. Each group had different needs, and it was enlightening to see how each member did tasks that helped the overall committee.

Not only did I get to meet new people, I learned what each group does and had input into future activities and projects. I volunteered for everything from decorating the gates in our community to helping set up and break down events, including an Easter egg hunt, seasonal festivals and trivia nights.

It amazed me how these events drew everyone together, and the team of volunteers made it happen. It struck me that we all want the same thing. It’s not recognition or a “thank you” (but they don’t hurt). It was about working together by choice for a common goal and knowing that everyone involved is giving all they have.

Each individual volunteer, whether at the library, the Friends group or community committees, has a reason to give his or her time freely. Whatever that reason is joins us together.

Sometimes when I’m telling a friend about one of the things I did while volunteering I still have to sit back and think, “Wow, this is really me doing this.” I decided to put away my fear and remnants of shyness and step up.

I’m thankful for the bonds I’ve made and the opportunity to give input and learn. I love the feeling of being a part of something that serves a greater purpose.