We believe we have the chance to succeed in most ventures; however, it is a little more challenging to actually have the time, energy, commitment, or resources to actually make that happen. We know there are many reasons and opportunities to volunteer in Shawano and Menominee counties; however, sometimes it is difficult to know if this is something that is right for you. You might ask yourself, “What is all involved?” and “How much are they going to want out of me?”
As with most things, the first step to “eating the elephant” is taking one bite at time, the first bite is knowing “you”: What makes you happy? What are you interested in? What ignites your curiosity? Are there opportunities in the community to volunteer and are they right for you? This might bring out thoughts of doubt, such as “what if I start and find out this is not for me?” or “I do not want to fail.” Nevertheless, these thoughts sometimes allow us to avoid getting involved at all.
So, with these thoughts, how do we take another bite of the elephant? Well, we have to look deeper into why you would not want to volunteer.
“I don’t have enough time.”
Our time is precious, and posed with another time management challenge, we all find it easier to make time for something we already do or feel comfortable with, but if there is an opportunity to grow while bettering our community, it is okay to be up front and honest about your time availability with the places that ignites your curiosity.
“I’ve had a bad experience in the past.”
We all grow with each bad experience. Do not let one bad experience hinder you from doing good for others and the community. Volunteering can provide you a health boost for your self-confidence and overall life satisfaction.
“I haven’t been asked.”
This may seem like a silly excuse, but it is a very common feeling. People get a false impression that the organization doesn’t need them or want them if they haven’t been asked to volunteer. However, do not be afraid to reach out. It may take a little self-initiative but it does not mean your help isn’t needed or wanted.
Hopefully with each of these bites, you are able to digest these considerations, but let’s take another bite, is there other reasons to why you would want to volunteer?
Have you recently retired and find yourself with more time to support your community? Returned back in the area for the Summer and want to be involved? (This may look good on your resume, too.) Moved to the area and want to help people?
There are always opportunities to learn more and get involved. The Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Department (SMCHD) recently listened to our community and what you had to say. This was through the 2019 Community Health Assessment.
The group of various community representatives that was created to help guide the identified priorities is known as a steering committee and is named Shawano-Menominee Healthy Communities. These are representatives from healthcare partners, tribal partners, nonprofit organizations, human service agencies, and other community members. The elephant we are faced with is Mental Health in our communities.
Mental health was voted the number one health priority in Shawano and Menominee counties.
Though improving mental health may seem like a big elephant and a daunting task, SMCHD and Shawano-Menominee Healthy Communities is working to take big bites one step at a time toward solid mental health supports that will last in our community.
One of our mental health initiatives might ignite your curiosity. SMCHD and Shawano-Menominee Healthy Communities is pursuing a National Alliance on Mental Illness affiliation for Shawano and Menominee counties. We have the chance to succeed by working together to help serve and better our communities.
Now is time to ask yourself if you find yourself interested in taking your own bite out of the elephant?
If you are interested and want to learn more about our initiatives, please visit our website at www.shawano.wi.us and click “Departments » Public Health” or call 715-526-4808.
Terri Harmala is the director for the Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Department.
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