Welcome to NSSLHA Roundup, where we spotlight the voices of our members on topics that inspire and connect us! This month, we’re diving into the world of volunteer service, showcasing innovative projects undertaken by NSSLHA chapters across the country. From engaging with local nursing homes to offering free ASL classes, our members are making meaningful contributions in their communities.
This month, we will be hearing from four National NSSLHA members:
Audrey Smith
Utah State University
Janyreé Santiago
Albizu University – Puerto Rico
Laura Schmidtberger
Eastern New Mexico University
Christen Carter
Southern University and A&M College
What are some creative volunteer service projects that your NSSLHA chapter has undertaken?
Audrey Smith
Utah State University
My chapter has worked closely with a nursing home in the area, and we have gone to play bingo with the residents in December and left sweet valentine’s messages on their doors in February.
Janyreé Santiago
Albizu University – Puerto Rico
As the Carlos Albizu NSSLHA President last year, we participated in many activities, but the most valuable for us was offering free ASL classes to our chapter members to promote inclusivity and improve communication with individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. Additionally, we hosted free speech and hearing screenings at local health fairs to raise awareness about communication disorders and provide early detection services.
Laura Schmidtberger
Eastern New Mexico University
We have done book and food donations. We also participate in local health fairs.
Christen Carter
Southern University and A&M College
Our chapter has undertaken many creative volunteer service projects such as attending fall festival events, participating in walks for awareness, food drives, books drives, and building Easter baskets for children in need.
How do you identify needs or causes in your community to support?
Audrey Smith
Utah State University
We look for individuals who we think need a little extra love or service, and we find ways to provide service to them! The recipients are always so thankful and it is such a treat to have a conversation with them!
Janyreé Santiago
Albizu University – Puerto Rico
One way to identify needs or causes in your community is to collaborate with local organizations. For example, you can partner with nonprofits, schools, healthcare providers, and community centers to identify areas where your chapter can make a significant impact. Another approach is to attend community meetings, neighborhood associations, or other community forums to stay informed about local issues.
Laura Schmidtberger
Eastern New Mexico University
We are fortunate to have students that are local to the area and professors that are active community members. I think primarily it’s through word-of-mouth.
Christen Carter
Southern University and A&M College
We identify needs and causes by communicating with past and present community service providers in our local community.
How do you motivate members to engage and participate in volunteer opportunities?
Audrey Smith
Utah State University
We coordinate with local elementary schools to provide volunteers for classrooms to aid with reading skills, and our members are encouraged to participate in this service for personal experience, resume building, and for fun!
Janyreé Santiago
Albizu University – Puerto Rico
To motivate members to engage in volunteer opportunities, it’s essential to create a supportive, inclusive, and rewarding environment. Start by clearly communicating the impact of their work, setting specific goals, and sharing success stories to show the difference they can make. Make volunteering convenient by offering flexible scheduling and a variety of roles to match different interests. Highlight opportunities for personal and professional growth, such as skill development and leadership roles. Keep the experience engaging by incorporating fun elements and encouraging members to share their stories. Finally, involve members in planning and seek their feedback to ensure they feel valued and invested in the projects.
Laura Schmidtberger
Eastern New Mexico University
We give students a lot of reminders about volunteer opportunities. Sometimes the motivation is as simple as it’s just being a way of meeting up and getting together. Another motivation is to continuing receiving chapter honors.
Christen Carter
Southern University and A&M College
We motivate our members to engage and participate in volunteer opportunities by explaining the importance of being involved in our community.
What tips do you have for a chapter that is starting a new volunteer initiative?
Audrey Smith
Utah State University
I would recommend finding something fun and short for new volunteer activities to increase the number of participants! Volunteering at a food bank or nursing home for a few hours is a great way to start volunteer work.
Janyreé Santiago
Albizu University – Puerto Rico
To successfully start a new volunteer initiative, begin by defining clear goals and measurable outcomes to guide your efforts. Understand the community’s needs through research and engagement to ensure the initiative addresses a real issue. Build a strong team by recruiting passionate members and providing necessary training. Develop a detailed action plan with timelines, resources, and a budget to ensure smooth execution. To engage and motivate volunteers, set clear expectations, foster a positive environment, and regularly recognize their contributions. Monitor progress consistently, being flexible to adapt the plan as needed based on feedback or challenges. After the initiative, assess its impact by reviewing goals and gathering feedback from volunteers and the community. Celebrate successes and acknowledge everyone’s efforts.
Laura Schmidtberger
Eastern New Mexico University
I find it’s more motivating to do activities that are intrinsically motivating like activities that have some social aspect to them.
Christen Carter
Southern University and A&M College
Simply, just going for it! There are no bounds to serving your community.
Look for more community outreach ideas on the National NSSLHA website.
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