A Little Bit Goes a Long Way

In my opinion, Benjamin Franklin is, by a long shot, one of the most fascinating characters of all the Founding Fathers: smart, witty, and determined. Among his countless accomplishments and contributions to American society, Franklin also penned some pretty sharp one-liners that are still ingrained in the American vernacular like: “Early to bed, early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.”, “A penny saved is a penny earned.”, “Fish and visitors stink after three days” etc., etc. But one of my favorites is: “Little strokes fell great oaks.”

OK – so why am I rambling on about Ben Franklin? If you’re related to me or are a friend of mine, you know I’ll take any excuse to talk about the Revolutionary War period and early American politics. But today, I bring Ben up because I feel this phrase really speaks to the heart of why volunteering is so powerful. Simply put, small, but precise, actions can make a huge impact. The entire park doesn't need to be cleaned up in one Saturday. It can take a month. The point is, you started the process. 

Last week, my post targeted those of you home for summer break from college. This week, it’s you high schoolers in the hot seat! Many of you are likely still sweating through your exams, desperate for freedom from the classroom. As I write this I’m watching the mercury outside my window creep closer and closer to the 90 degree mark so I can’t say that I blame you. And while you’re probably going to set up shop on the beach or by the pool for a much-needed break, I encourage you to spend a little time thinking about something near and dear to your heart in your community. I guarantee there’s something you’re passionate about. 

A really cool function on Darien-based VolunteerSquare.com is something called the Incubator. Here, you can post an idea for a volunteer project that YOU create yourself. Clean a playground, collect supplies for students coming back to school in September who may need a hand, start a reading club for seniors in your neighborhood. Sky’s the limit! Remember, all it takes is that first step so go find your oak!

You can also go on our site for listings of other volunteer opportunities throughout the area. Just go to VolunteerSquare.com. While you're on the website, be sure to sign up and become a member of VolunteerSquare.com for access to other volunteering opportunities.