Ayooluwa Odekunle’s Post

What inspires you to keep going..? This evening, I met a volunteer at a stadium whose dedication truly inspired me. He had volunteered at a program last night until 11:00 PM, started another one early this morning from 3:00 AM to 9:00 AM, and was back again from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM for yet another program. I asked him, “What keeps you going?” His answer was simple but powerful: “I love meeting new people, experiencing different programs, and learning about other cultures etc.” The Three Things I Learned: 1. Passion drives energy - When you enjoy something, even long hours feel worthwhile. 2. Be open to experiences - Meeting new people and trying different things can teach you a lot. 3. Giving back is rewarding - Volunteering helps others while bringing you joy and growth. This conversation reminded me how much we can learn from others’ passion and commitment.. #Dedication #Inspiration #Volunteering #Passion #Community #Motivation #MakeTime

Hey community! 👋 Discover the profound benefits of volunteering in the latest HENSLEE blog! 👀 From fostering community bonds 👥, to boosting mental health 🧠 and driving career growth 🚀, volunteering offers remarkable rewards. We also chat with our Co-Founder Lee Turner, SHRM-CP about his personal experiences with volunteering. 🗣️ Check it out and get inspired to make a positive impact today! 💡 Link to the blog in the description below! 👇 #Volunteerism #CommunityImpact #HENSLEE #PeopleOps

#Happy New Week!!! Trust me, there’s a problem waiting to be solved right in your neighborhood. That small act of kindness you think is insignificant? Do it and you will be amazed at how much it can mean to someone. I remember buying books, pencils, and erasers for some kids living next door. What seemed like a small gesture turned into a moment that touched their hearts and put smiles on their faces. The beauty of volunteering is that it doesn’t have to be something big. Small actions, like helping a neighbor, can have a huge impact. You don’t need a title or a large organization to start making a difference. Just look around you. There’s always someone in need of support, and you can be the one to offer it. Whether it’s helping kids with school supplies, assisting a senior citizen, or even joining a local community group, the first step to making a real difference is often closer than you think—it’s right outside your door. Ready to get started as a local volunteer? Take action today, and watch how even the smallest efforts can create lasting change. My advice for the week: Remember, every small act counts. Start where you are, use what you have, and make a difference in your own unique way. #SocialAdvocate #Volunteering #CommunityImpact #Kindness #SocialImpact #Changemakers

We hope you'll join this webinar on 12/2 and learn about ways to address the growing gap in generosity - register at the link below!

As we try to understand the world around us and how we navigate it to ensure that the nonprofit sector is vibrant, healthy and has the resources to fulfill important mission-driven work - the timing of this report couldn't be better. Join me at this free webinar on Dec 2.

Reflections on Giving Back, Compassion, and Changing Times Yesterday, I spent the morning helping the local Rotary Club sell raffle tickets at Bunnings to support youth initiatives and projects. Being the first time, It was an interesting experience that left me reflecting on the nature of generosity, connection, and how times are changing. I noticed that the majority of those who stopped to purchase tickets or make donations were from an older generation. Many shared heartfelt stories of how Rotary had supported them or their loved ones through difficult times. They wanted to give back or “pay it forward” to help others in need. At the same time, I observed that many people walked past the table without a glance—a stark contrast to those who stopped to engage. This made me reflect on how societal priorities and attitudes toward community giving may be shifting, and it’s a reminder of how important it is to foster connection and compassion in our increasingly fast-paced lives. These reflections tie closely to two incredible opportunities I had in 2018-2019: 1. The Churchill Fellowship, where I examined peer support programs to reduce mental health challenges in emergency service volunteers. 2. The NSW Health Judith Meppem Scholarship, where I explored how to grow and sustain compassionate workplace cultures. Both experiences reinforced the importance of creating spaces—whether in the workplace or the broader community—where compassion, kindness, and mutual support can thrive. Whether it’s through volunteering, leadership, or simply taking a moment to connect with someone, I remain committed to growing environments where people feel valued and supported, especially those facing struggle and distress. In a world that often feels more disconnected than ever, I believe taking the time to listen, engage, and give back is one of the most powerful ways we can make a lasting impact. #CompassionateLeadership #Community #Compassion #GivingBack #MentalHealth #ChurchillFellowship #JudithMeppemScholarship #CommunityMatters #Rotary

For the last few years, I have had the honor of volunteering with Dallas CASA, an organization that recruits, trains, and supervises community volunteers to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children in protective care. Volunteering with this organization has not only been eye-opening, but heart-breaking at times. As an advocate for these children, our work involves meeting with kids on a monthly basis, advocating for their interests in court, and addressing any issues they face in school, health, or other areas of their lives. One of the most jarring realizations is that in many cases, there isn’t anyone else beyond us looking out for the kids. There is no backup. The system is overloaded and isn’t designed to deal with the complex problems that arise for these kids. The job of the advocate is to be that person that takes action and does all they can to intervene in the child’s life. This work is a reminder that as each of us observes the problems we have in this world, we can’t simply rely on the system or expect others to step up. It's easy to assume there are already measures in place or that someone else will take care of it. In reality- if we want to see change or make an impact, we have to do it ourselves. When we see issues in our community, we owe it to each other to bear the responsibility of change. We need to recognize that each of us has the power to make a difference.  By getting involved, we can help bridge the gaps and provide innovative solutions or much-needed support where it’s needed most. Whether it's through volunteering, advocacy, or simply being a voice for the voiceless, every action counts. #CommunityImpact #VolunteerWork #DallasCASA #ChildAdvocacy #TakeAction

Empowering Residents to Give Back Who says volunteering is only for outsiders? Some of the most impactful programs in senior living communities are those where residents themselves become the volunteers. 🙌 Whether it’s reading to children at local schools, knitting blankets for shelters, or organizing community events, these programs allow residents to stay active, share their skills, and feel a deep sense of purpose. 🧶📚 When residents give back, they gain more than just new connections—they experience the joy of making a difference in someone else’s life. 🌟 What volunteer programs have you seen be most successful? #SeniorLiving #ResidentEmpowerment #VolunteeringWithPurpose #CommunityImpact #ActiveAging

Giving comes in many forms—your time, your skills, or even just a kind word. Today, we reflect on the true essence of volunteering. It's not always about grand gestures, but about showing up consistently, with passion and empathy. Volunteering teaches us humility, reminds us that we all have a role to play in shaping a better society. Have you ever thought about how much a simple act of kindness could mean to someone else? Join us today in spreading love, compassion, and understanding. #Mondaymotivation #ActOfKindness #VolunteerWisdom #VolunteerPlatform #GiveBack #PurposeDriven #CommunityBuilders #NigeriaVolunteers

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