Give Back, Get Back

Work-life balance.

You’ve probably read articles or sat through at least one seminar presented by your human resources team on balance. But for many young professionals, balance extends even beyond career and family to also include giving back to the community.

“One of the things I’ve seen with this generation is that it really is part of who they are,” says Pete Griffin, president and CEO of Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Central Arizona. “It’s something that makes this generation special. The hardest part is figuring out that thing you want to do that’s going to give you a return, that’s going to make you feel like you’re having an impact.”

The personal benefits of getting involved in the community are many, he says. He witnesses an evolution in people who volunteer with his own organization, which has a big brother and sister volunteer base of more than 2,200.

“They come because they’re looking to give back,” Griffin says. “Then after a couple months, when you ask, ‘How are things going?’ they talk about themselves. They didn’t realize how much they were getting out of it.”   

Many people, he says, find professional benefits as well. In addition to learning or further developing skills, volunteering provides an opportunity for networking. “We’ve seen examples of people who’ve gotten jobs because of connections they’ve made through our organization,” Griffin says.

But, he notes, where you give is a personal decision based on personal interests. As you consider where to donate your time, do your homework.

“It’s really important to look at the organization you’re working with, the time commitment and its track record for success,” Griffin says.

Recognize your time constraints, and make sure the organization is in line with your interests and is something you can commit to, he suggests.

“Nonprofits really rely on their volunteers. You want don’t want to commit and then bail,” Griffin says. “Take your time and decide if they’re the best fit for you.”

Get Connected
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona
www.helparizonayouth.org

This story, written by Stephanie Conner, is part of the Chamber's monthly Valley Young Professionals email. To find out more about VYP, click here; to sign up for the Chamber's other targeted emails, click here.