Over 30 years ago, the Homeless Stand Down started as an event to help veterans. While its impact has since expanded to anyone experiencing homelessness, veterans are still a core group of those in attendance. To honor this, BVU provides resources and items specifically for former service members.
This proved to be a fitting volunteer opportunity for David Suh, a biomedical engineer working to support disabled veterans. Learn more about his story below!
Helping to distribute shoes to veterans may have been a relatively small job in the grand scheme of the event, but it was perfect for me. I’m in the process of starting in a new biotechnology-related role at the VA Medical Center. Volunteering was a great opportunity to connect with the population I will be serving in my new position, while having a direct impact on those who are struggling.
This is my first time volunteering with BVU! Today’s event and the training leading up to it have been positive, organized, and enlightening. I appreciate that BVU focuses on the root causes of issues to help volunteers understand their impact on a deeper level. I’m looking forward to finding more opportunities to support the local community.
Start small with causes/interest areas that you have a connection with. Then once you get comfortable, think about how to expand your involvement. I know that orgs like BVU have a great network of volunteer opportunities and would be happy to help you figure out where to begin.
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Good luck in your new role, David!
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This post is part of BVU’s series of 2024 Homeless Stand Down volunteer spotlights for National Volunteer Week.