What happens when a single volunteer experience ignites a lifelong passion?
We ask Will, our featured teen volunteer, who has been making a significant difference through Pebble Tossers for the last two years. He shares his most meaningful moments, the impact volunteering has had on his life, and a powerful message for anyone looking to get involved in their community.
PT: Everyone starts somewhere! How did you get into volunteering?
WILL: My first volunteer experience was with Agape in sixth grade. I truly enjoyed engaging with the children. I left with the feeling everyone was happier for having shared time together. This showed me the power of connection to others.
PT: Share an experience that has been particularly meaningful to you as a volunteer.
WILL: I have been very involved in delivering meals with Open Hand Atlanta. At first, it was a way for me to help my community and spend time with my mom. It turned into a passion of mine as I learned about the different communities that make up metro Atlanta and saw the financial and physical challenges many of our fellow neighbors have. I quickly realized each delivery was an opportunity to brighten someone’s day not only with a healthy meal but a meaningful conversation. Open Hand Atlanta’s incredible staff has become an extended family to me. What we do together is important and has brought me so much joy.
PT: What impact has volunteering had on your life?
WILL: I have loved volunteering from a young age. I have learned small acts of kindness consistently done over time have enabled me to have a significant impact on my community and the many organizations I work with. I have built lasting relationships with adults who are willing to support me in my future endeavors. I have also learned while we all come from different backgrounds and face different challenges, we are much more alike than we realize. The spirit and kindness I have experienced in my many volunteer activities have reinforced my commitment to always prioritize my community involvement. I have come to understand and appreciate the amazing work of so many local non-profits and their dedicated employees I am honored to call my friends
PT: Parents, how impactful has volunteering been for your family?
Reyne (Will’s Mom): I have watched my son grow into an amazing, empathetic, and incredible young man! We started out volunteering as a way to spend quality time together. I would have never imagined how deeply involved we would become with so many organizations and different communities throughout Atlanta. I am so proud of Will’s dedication to service. His involvement has spread to everyone in our family answering the call to help when organizations are shorthanded. I love how Will has created a service mindset in our family and has consistently made volunteering a consistent part of his life over the past six years.
PT: What keeps you coming back and continuing to volunteer?
WILL: The people that make up the various organizations we are honored to work with and for!!
PT: What message would you like to share with the community about volunteering?
WILL: I would encourage everyone to get involved in community service. Pebble Tossers makes it easy to connect with many volunteer opportunities. Be intentional about scheduling your time. Weekly events like the Sandwich Project or CHOA drop-off days are a great way to build a foundation of service throughout high school. From there, you can branch out and try new activities. It will lead to having a lasting impact on your community and provide you with many personally rewarding experiences.
