The Impact of Volunteering
U.S. Army story and photos by PFC Destiny Husband
Fort Stewart, Ga. – While it is well known that Soldiers serve their country, many also give their time to their local communities as well. It represents selfless service. A core value in the United States Army that extends well beyond a Soldier’s duty; the benefits leave a lasting impact whether you are the one serving or the one being served.
Leanna Crawford, a radio equipment repairer, said the significance of one's personality, behavior, and words that can affect their mental health. She also said that the way a person walks through life reflects how they see the world and that when someone cares about the environment and other people, it affects not only others but also themselves.
She emphasized that voluntarily giving one’s time and energy to make the world a better place has deep meaning, and that these are opportunities to gain life experiences, understanding, and develop character in the process.
“It’s like the trickle effect,” said Crawford. “Help one person, that one person helps two people, those two people help four people, and it turns into a whole pyramid. I’m hoping that maybe one day I can inspire somebody to be able to want to do the same thing because it does a lot more for you than you realize.”
Crawford maintains her mental health by consistently contributing to the local community. She realizes that assisting others has benefited her in several ways and hopes to inspire people to do the same.
She has demonstrated to others the kind of compassion she had needed growing up through her volunteer activities. Occasionally as she matured, she felt alienated. The more she gives back to her community, the more she understands how crucial it is for everyone—including herself—to be that person who creates an atmosphere that allows authenticity. She surrounded herself with people who shared her goals for volunteering, which helped her connect with others.
“You can be that one person that makes a difference in somebody else's life just by being there,” said Crawford.
She has advanced her professional qualifications and leadership skills through her numerous volunteer opportunities, which have included the local soup kitchens, humane society, fitness facilities, and K9 battle buddies among other things. She believes these opportunities are paving her way as a future noncommissioned officer. For Crawford, the possibilities are endless.
“I actually want to be that NCO that does set an example, that people would want to emulate for doing the right thing,” said Crawford.
Additionally, she took on the role as the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers representative, a program designed to improve single soldiers' welfare and morale, boost retention, and maintain combat readiness. Her unit was able to see her work ethic with BOSS and other essential tasks, inspiring her soldiers and friends to get involved in the community as well.
“Being able to leave my comfort zone and volunteer has made me feel more successful,” said Crawford.
When learning step aerobics at a community fitness center, she had met Chaka Khan Grant Walthour, a retired chaplain assistant. Crawford was timid at first but quickly advanced to teaching and even earned a certification. They became really close throughout their workouts and through their selfless efforts, they became role models for other female Soldiers, encouraging them to step beyond their comfort zones and become better versions of themselves.
“It reminded me that even though we hang up the uniform, we still have an obligation to pour into the soldiers that are currently serving and helping them grow as future leaders,” said Walthour.
Walthour was able to continue to engage with the community and make a difference by using her experience as a former NCO. She said Crawford inspired her, and that although her efforts started with Crawford, they didn't end there.
Soldiers are doing their duty honorably and without regard for reward or recognition when serving others. Crawford continues to exemplify this army value, but this isn’t just a duty she’s trying to uphold, it’s just who she is as a person.
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