Every dime and dollar that you raise will help those who need your support the most. We had a chance this morning to volunteer at the annual rummage sale for HOPE, working for the elimination of domestic violence and the welfare of the disabled families. We made arrangements to reach there and scheduled our time with Andy Hunt. She informed that a large number of volunteers are trained to help HOPE in accomplishing its goals. The goal was printed on her business card, "ending domestic violence through the provisions of housing, outreach, prevention and education." It was a great experience meeting her and watching her dedication and enthusiasm, working for the disadvantaged people. I was accompanied by a course-mate and we spend two hours as a volunteer. The experience was so great and fulfilling that one never feels like coming back. Families and young people were generously donating their gently-used clothes, purses, books, furniture, toys, DVDs, CDs, VHS tapes, games, puzzles and more.
Angie Hunt briefed us about how successful the project is turning out to be; and how community, specially the disadvantaged people benefitted from this opportunity to buy stuff at incredibly low prices. There was a long queue of people waiting for their turn to enter the mall and get their turn. HOPE has been working with disadvantaged population since 1951, making their life better by helping achieve greater independence and becoming active participants in the community. The success of the projects like HOPE largely depends on active participation.  |
I was astonished to see the prices ranged from a dime to a dollar, regardless of what it was. It could be a toy, a shirt or pair of jeans, the price charged was dependent upon the need and affordability of the buyer, rather than actual value.
The mall was packed with people of all ages but a greater majority was kids, accompanying their grand-parents/parents asking them to buy them whatever they wanted. Most people spent 5-10 dollars. I saw one of the baby girl asking her mother to get her 12 barbie dolls, but the total amount she paid for those dolls was just 3 dollars. This reminded me that when I was a kid, barbie dolls were considered to be one of most expensive toys to get, usually costing $50 or more.
Being there, I helped them in organizing tables, arranging and piling of clothes, books and other stuff. Once we finished doing that, I helped at the cash-counter handling sales. At the end I ended up purchasing a bagful of stuff too. The idea was to make a humble contribution towards the cause of HOPE. I felt that if we as individuals contribute a dollar or two, it does help make a bigger difference, hoping to bring smiles to the faces of some people.
If you are reading this blog, I would urge you to make it a part of your routine in life to make a contribution to such events, as a token of thanks to God Almighty for His utmost blessings upon us. Even if the contribution is not monetary, kind thoughts, prayers and volunteer work can help make a big difference. I am grateful that I was given this opportunity to volunteer, learn and contribute.
No comments:
Post a Comment