USAG YONGSAN -- The Army Community Service (ACS) provides opportunities to volunteers who are willing to dedicate their time to help others on post. On top of that, the ACS welcomes nominated volunteers to its Volunteer of the Quarter or Volunteer of the Year events to recognize and show appreciation for their hard work. Volunteerism has played an integral role in the life of Soldiers and their families. In the early years, volunteers mended uniforms, cared for the sick or wounded, and comforted families of fallen Soldiers. Volunteers continue to transform military installations into communities.
"People volunteer for multiple reasons," said Jenifer Jenkins, the Volunteer Program Manager. "Some volunteers to get out and meet other people and some do it for the love of helping others. Regardless of the reason, volunteering affects everyone. Volunteers make a huge impact on a community and requires extreme selflessness and dedication to others."
Bill Baker, who has been a volunteer at the United States Organizations for over 4 years said that he has learned a valuable lesson during the past few years: "You never know when you might need help from someone. Help others and who knows when they'll be able to help you," said Baker. "Personally, I just love helping people and it makes me feel good inside. Regardless of the time, if they can call me, I'm glad to help them." Baker says volunteering helps him keep his mind occupied. "I talk to Soldiers who are away from their homes for the first time and I tell them this is their home away from home. It helps them feel less lonely. Simply by talking and listening, I am helping them."
Volunteers on post say that there are many reasons why more people should volunteer. Volunteers can get involved with what is going on post and learn something new. Also, they take the advantage of accumulating varied experiences by exploring new areas of interest or careers. Volunteering not only helps those in need, but also improves volunteers' resume and motivate others to join, making the process more fun. Volunteer organizations include the USO, schools, the library, the Red Cross, the Boy and Girl scouts, Chapel programs, ACS, Better Opportunities for Singe Soldiers, and many more.
"If it wasn't for our volunteers, our community would not be able to be as successful as we are," added Jenkins. "Volunteering may provide volunteers a new skill set that could help them to become employed and it allows newly arrived families the ability to connect with others. Volunteers are the backbone of many organizations and without volunteers, organizations would not be able to support and provide outstanding service to the rest of the community."
For more information, contact the Army Community Service at 738-7505 or visit building 4106.
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U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan Homepage
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