National Volunteer Appreciation Week 2011

This week is National Volunteer Appreciation Week. What do you do to make a difference? I recently became a "Big Sister" with Big Brothers Big Sisters. While I have only spent time with my little once (I just started last month), I feel like this could be the beginning of something big. Big Brothers Big Sisters sent out an email about how I have the potential to make a difference by volunteering.

A study conducted by Harris Interactive on behalf of Big Brothers Big Sisters discovered some amazing findings from those children who graduated from the program, "Little Alumni"

• Compassion:84% of former Littles surveyed agree their experience influenced them in showing understanding to those less fortunate.
• College: 67% of Littles surveyed agreed that their Big played a role in their decision to attend college.
• Direction: 83% of former Littles surveyed agree their Big instilled values and principles that have guided them through life.
• Courage: 85% Littles surveyed agreed that their experience influenced them in overcoming adversity or problems with courage.
• Perspective: 81% of former Littles surveyed agree their Big gave them hope & changed their perspective of what they thought possible.

It's neat to think about things in that perspective.

So, my question to you is, what do YOU do to make a difference? I'd love to hear what organizations you are involved in!