“It has changed my life.”

by Vanessa Mahlmann

I began my time with the Coalition as a volunteer 2 years ago and it has changed my life.

I wasn’t involved with any groups or organizations at the time. I knew about the Coalition, but I did not take action until the Lord spoke to me. I had no idea what God had in store for me.

I was a homebody and allowed life to pass me by for quite some time. I grew up involved with the Salvation Army, as my grandparents were ministers for the Salvation Army. I did a lot of volunteer work in my youth and I loved it. There really wasn’t a feeling like it. To give, to receive nothing tangible back and wanting to continue doing it because you know it is the right thing to do. Somewhere between getting married, starting a family, going to school, and getting MY “priorities” in order I forgot to serve. Not just my community, but my Lord.

And, even if you do not believe in God, you can believe that volunteering and serving others is important and good! We need to serve and give with a cheerful heart. Not just our finances (which is helpful too) but with our time. (2 Corinthians 9:6-7) The blessings that we can give and receive are innumerable as well as unimaginable. I know, because it has and still is happening to me.

Volunteering gives us a sense of purpose. Nothing brings people together like fighting for the freedom of others! The work that Justice Co volunteers provide is essential to everyday processes. Running errands, stuffing envelopes, data entry, outreach, teaching classes, all which gives volunteers a sense of purpose. Some of these things may seem inconsequential, but they are what it takes to prevent human trafficking.

Volunteering may reduce stress levels. By enjoying time spent in service to others, individuals will feel a sense of meaning and appreciation, which can have a stress-reducing effect. I love, pray for, and trust our volunteers. I do my best to make sure they know how much I appreciate each and every one of them.

Volunteering ignites passion and makes us happy. Research has shown that the “feel good” hormones and brain activity spike during volunteer activities. Volunteering is also a good way to explore different interests. The Justice Co has many ways individuals can use their gifts and talents. Graphic design, mentoring, education, and event planning are just some of the ways our volunteers can serve.

For those of you who are reading this that have helped the Coalition in any capacity, thank you! If you can’t give your time right now, when you give financially you are sharing from what you earn…every hour and every dollar matters. It’s in fact multiplied – even doubled through midnight tomorrow! Will you join us?