The Power of Volunteering with the League of Women Voters of Yakima County
Volunteering is at the heart of what we do in the League, and it brings immense value not only to our community but also to each one of us as individuals. Our collective efforts in encouraging voter registration, educating the public, and advocating for informed and active participation in government are fundamental to our mission. As we prepare for our upcoming events, I want to take a moment to share some inspiring words from our dedicated members and emphasize the importance of volunteerism within our League.
Kitty Jubran, a long-time member, eloquently captures the spirit of our efforts:
“I joined the League to encourage voter registration which has led to two decades of registering voters at tabling events. Our events are respected, and people count on our ability to answer questions in an informative and nonpartisan manner. It is part of the League’s DNA. At a recent event, a woman shared her reluctance to vote, feeling it didn’t matter – we were able to express the ways it did matter. She walked away smiling, saying, ‘Thanks, I needed that.’ To which I heartily agree – this is why I volunteer.”
Similarly, Karri Livingston highlights the personal rewards of volunteering:
“I volunteer to be at League events so that I can share what the League is all about and to encourage people to vote. I always come away from these events with positive, encouraging stories about the people I meet and the members I share the event with.”
Criss Bardill adds another valuable perspective on the welcoming nature of our community:
“We frequently receive warm welcomes from people passing by. I’ve never had someone approach that was looking for an argument or wanted to criticize the League. Tabling always presents an opportunity to get to know a fellow volunteer better. I like supporting the visibility of the League in our community.” These testimonials underscore the profound impact we have on our community and the meaningful connections we build with each other. For those considering volunteering for the first time, rest assured that new volunteers are always paired with experienced members who have tabled in the past. This not only ensures a smooth and effective experience but also provides a wonderful opportunity to get to know fellow League members better.
The benefits of being an active member of the League extend far beyond the immediate tasks of registering voters or answering questions. Volunteering with the League allows us to grow as individuals, develop new skills, and form lasting friendships. It strengthens our community and reinforces our commitment to making democracy work.
Furthermore, the more engagement we have from our members, the more we can accomplish. Increased participation enhances our capacity to host more events, reach more people, and expand our impact. Your involvement is crucial to our success. By joining together and contributing our time and talents, we can continue to make a significant difference in our community.
As we strive to serve our community, I encourage each of you to consider how you can contribute your time and talents. Whether you are a seasoned volunteer or new to our efforts, your participation is invaluable. Together, we can continue to make a difference and uphold the values of the League of Women Voters.
Sincerely,
Lee Murdock
President, League of Women Voters of Yakima County
