We all want to find our passion and purpose in life. But here’s the secret: the best way to discover both is by serving others. At United Way of Northwest Georgia, we connect people with passion and resources to create lasting change. And guess what? You do not have to look far to make an impact—our community is full of opportunities to give back!
Volunteers are the heartbeat of everything we do—from improving education and health to strengthening livelihoods and building a more resilient community in Whitfield and Murray counties. Without them, many critical needs would go unmet. That is why we are taking a moment to celebrate and thank these incredible individuals who step up every day to make a difference.
Spring Break with a Purpose
While some students hit the beach for Spring Break, our Youth United members chose a different kind of adventure—one filled with service and impact! They participated in an Alternative Spring Break, tackling hands-on projects that made a real difference. Whether they were playing games with RossWoods Adult Day Service participants, sorting donations for domestic violence survivors at the Family Crisis Center, or preparing garden beds, cleaning buses, and getting summer camp spaces ready at Salvation Army, they proved that young people can be powerful forces for good. A remarkable group of 45 students came together, contributing an impressive 1,485 volunteer hours! When volunteers show up, the whole community wins. That’s nearly $50,000 in services donated through our Alternative Speak Break initiative.
National Volunteer Week: April 21-25
This week is all about recognizing the power of volunteers to transform communities. At United Way, we believe volunteerism is not just nice—it is necessary. That is why we are rolling out the red carpet for our Youth and Volunteer Awards Celebration!
We will be shining the spotlight on local heroes, including:
• Two Elbert Shaw Memorial Scholarship winners
• United Way’s Youth Volunteer of the Year
• The Connie Woodward Award for Outstanding Volunteerism in Whitfield County
• The Elaine Butler Award for Outstanding Volunteerism in Murray County
• Youth United Council Members
Be sure to follow us on social media as we highlight these inspiring individuals who are making our community stronger!
Seven Benefits of Volunteering
Volunteering is not just good for the community—it is good for you too! According to Points of Light, here are seven benefits of volunteering:
1. Reduces Stress – Helping others can lower stress levels and bring a sense of calm and purpose.
2. Combats Depression—Volunteering increases social interaction and provides support systems that help prevent depression.
3. Prevents Feelings of Isolation – Volunteering connects you with others, creating friendships and community bonds.
4. Increases Confidence – Giving back helps you gain a sense of accomplishment, boosting self-esteem.
5. Gives a Sense of Purpose – Serving others fosters a deep sense of fulfillment and meaning.
6. Ignites Passion – Discover new interests and reignite enthusiasm by getting involved in causes that inspire you.
7. Makes You Happy – Studies show that acts of kindness and giving release endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals.
Find Your Purpose—Get Involved!
Every single person has something to give. The question is—how will you serve? Maybe it is lending a hand at a food pantry, mentoring a student, or simply helping a neighbor in need. No act of kindness is too small. Looking for ways to get started? Visit ourunitedway.org/volunteer to find opportunities that match your passion. And remember, making an impact goes beyond volunteering—you can also give back and take action. Whether you donate $5 or $500, your gift helps United Way support families and individuals who need it most. Together, we can accomplish incredible things. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work—because United is the Way we build strong and healthy communities!
Amanda Burt is the President of the United Way of Northwest Georgia.
The mission of United Way is Improving Lives. Inspiring Donors. Uniting Community.