Sponsors are more than a name on a banner! In a conversation with our staff, Dezirae Stoker (a team member of Meaden & Moore) reflects on her second year of involvement with BVU and the Homeless Stand Down.
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What motivated you to volunteer at today’s event?
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I used to live in downtown Cleveland and witnessed the struggles faced by the homeless population in the community. Back then, I didn’t know how to help other than showing general kindness. When I heard about the event last year, I volunteered by doing distribution, and it was truly an incredible experience that proved the importance of lending a helping hand in others’ time of need, even if that just means handing someone a t-shirt or a pair of socks. It was truly humbling. Any of us could be one medical bill or tragedy away from being in a similar position and it served as a reminder and an expression of our shared humanity.
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Can you share how BVU has impacted your volunteer journey?
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BVU has played a significant role in shaping the way I help out. I had donated to organizations before, but I wasn’t seeing the people I was helping or hearing their stories. There are many organizations out there to volunteer with, but sometimes not having the knowledge or experience with the organizations was intimidating. When I began my new job last year, I was introduced to BVU. BVU’s dedication to fostering partnerships between businesses and nonprofits has opened up resources to me not only in a professional setting, but also in my personal life.
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What advice would you give to someone who wants to get involved in the community but doesn’t know where to start?
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Just get out there. Explore your interests. Answer the question: What am I passionate about? Whether it be animal welfare, homelessness, education, politics, helping the elderly or children – or ALL of them – start reaching out to nonprofits, research them online, or reach out to volunteer centers like BVU. One small step can open up endless opportunities.
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We are grateful to be a part of your volunteer journey, Dezirae!
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This post is part of BVU’s series of 2024 Homeless Stand Down volunteer spotlights for National Volunteer Week.