Volunteer Leader Spotlight: Adam Jones

The Goalball team takes a break to pose for the camera. Hi, team! (Adam is second from the right.)

It’s one thing to know how to play ball, but to play without using your vision is an extra challenge most people don’t experience. Volunteer Adam Jones takes pleasure in putting on goggles covered in duct tape and playing goalball with Tennessee Association of Blind Athletes (TNABA). It forces him to get outside of his comfort zone and use his other senses to make his way around the court. And, he feels good about helping the athletes prepare for their next tournament.

Adam moved to Nashville in 2009, looking for ways he could get engaged with the Nashville community. He found Hands On Nashville’s website and, after trying a few different volunteer options, found himself frequenting the TNABA court. By 2011, he was leading these volunteer opportunities as a HON Volunteer Leader, making a huge difference in the lives of these athletes. Adam comments that he loved this particular volunteer experience because “it combines my love of sports with my fervor for volunteering.”

Adam in action playing goalball with the TNABA players. Go, Adam!

While some people find it daunting to play a new game like goalball, Adam encourages more people to sign up and take a chance, especially if you love competition. Adam says, “New volunteers should not be afraid to dive in completely. Try to beat the TNABA athletes when you play them. They are most assuredly trying to beat you.”

The best part about volunteering is “helping to fill a need,” says Adam. He encourages everyone to find an organization or an activity they love and spend time volunteering there. He says, “Whether the need is great or small, local or international, being able to help by giving of myself is both rewarding and uplifting. I appreciate the work that you do at HON and look forward to volunteering with you more in the future.”

Check out the following opportunities where you can volunteer with TNABA this fall:
> Thursday, October 25, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
> Saturday, November 3, 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
> Saturday, November 17, 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Nonprofit Partner Spotlight: Penuel Ridge

Do you ever find yourself yearning for a quiet place to retreat, reflect, meditate, and just be? If you’re like most of us, you’re likely sitting at a desk, checking and re-checking constant emails, tweets and texts, while trying to squeeze in a quick bathroom break before you crunch in one more client conversation. While you did take a break to “be creative,” the pyramid of empty coffee mugs on your desk just doesn’t cut it as a renewing activity anymore.

Lutheran Hands volunteers out helping weed and maintain the natural beauty at Penuel Ridge.

We have good news to share. On 135 acres of lovely rolling land in Ashland City – complete with a lake, meadows, woods, trails, and wildlife – is a special place called Penuel Ridge. This nonprofit retreat center has created a peaceful setting that offers the opportunity for people of all faiths, backgrounds, and income levels to have the space to focus on renewal and restoration. This spiritual retreat center focuses on fostering values of contemplation, silence, hospitality, rest, social justice and communion with nature; nurturing the journey inward to strengthen the journey outward. Rooted in the Christian and Jewish faiths, Penuel Ridge welcomes persons of all traditions.

Cindy, a recent Penuel Ridge visitor comments, “I came to Penuel Ridge seeking solitude and spiritual growth – I left with both goals met and the knowledge that this gem –this amazing place abounds with such positive energy and spiritual warmth.”

Cross Point Church Volunteers out helping mulch area around Penuel Ridge. Great team building. Thanks for lending your time and talents!

Penuel Ridge is able to offer restorative retreats to people like you, your brother, or even your friend over there in the gray cubical, all because of the volunteers who make it possible. Because Penuel Ridge has only one staff person, volunteers play a big role in helping to maintain the property, gardening, cooking, facilitating retreats for individuals experiencing homelessness, and more.

You can do your part to make Penuel Ridge a welcoming and restorative place for all. Here are ways to get involved with Penuel Ridge today:

Volunteer Coordinator
Penuel Ridge is seeking an organized volunteer willing to lend his/her time to manage volunteers and an enjoyment for the beauty of Penuel Ridge.
> Click here to read more and sign up.

Volunteer Librarian
Use your great organizing skills to help with the Penuel Ridge Library. Volunteers are needed to complete a bi-monthly of status of shelves and condition of books while also adding books to the inventory as they come in.
> Click here to read more and sign up.

Seasonal Bush-hogger
Help maintain the land by bush-hogging every two-three weeks April through October. Volunteers will use Penuel Ridge’s equipment and should be able to knowledgeably drive a tractor.
> Click here to read more and sign up.

Volunteer Leader Spotlight: Kymberly Anderson

This mother, entrepreneur, native Nashvillian, and world traveler has a big place in her heart for volunteerism and Music City.

“I was married in Japan and have literally been around the world with my six boys 25 times,” says Kymberly Anderson. She’s been on many worldly adventures, but has always found her way back to Nashville and the people here who make it a wonderful place to live. “[Volunteerism and] Hands On Nashville have made such a great impact on me and my city!” she exclaims. “I was born and raised here. I lived and traveled all over the world, but always return to Nashville!”

While not on the move, Kymberly has been involved with HON since the mid-1990s when she served as a member of Hands On Nashville’s board of directors and in various volunteer roles. When the 2010 flood hit Nashville, Kym stepped up her commitment in a big way and served as a Project Coordinator helping with flood cleanup on Blue Hole Road for three weeks.

“After [helping with] the flood, I knew I had to get back full time with HON and find my groove.” She found a true sweet spot leading volunteers to serve hot meals to Nashville’s homeless and working poor through Catholic Charities’ program Loaves and Fishes, and she’s been doing it for the past two years. “Loaves & Fishes is one of the most fulfilling projects that HON is involved with. I have [led volunteer projects many times] over the years, and I’ve found such a deep connection at Loaves & Fishes.” Her favorite part is the interaction. “I love the stories and seeing everyone each and every month,” she comments. “We are surrounded by so many grateful people.”

If you are trying out a new service opportunity like Loaves & Fishes, Kymberly encourages you to go with the flow. “Even though your project may not run as smoothly as you anticipate, the end result is phenomenal to others. And, wear comfortable shoes!”

“With HON, we can and do make huge differences within our community. HON is so well run, the projects give you the freedom to express your individualism, and the end results actually change someone’s life besides your own,” she says. “I am very proud to be involved with HON, and will continue to be a Volunteer Leader for the next 20 years!”

Loaves and Fishes occurs on the 4th Saturday of every month from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. If you want to participate, click here to sign up for this project. HON’s Volunteer Leaders and volunteers are an integral part of Hands On Nashville’s mission to impact community needs through volunteerism. Thank you, Kym, for your leadership and volunteerism.

Nonprofit Partner Spotlight: The Nashville City Cemetery Association

Volunteers play a key role in helping keep the cemetery beautiful.

Where in our fair city can you literally take a stroll through Nashville’s history? Meander down the quaint lanes of the Nashville City Cemetery, and you will begin to feel that you have stepped back in time – all the way back to 1820.

Buried on these peaceful grounds in the middle of the city are Revolutionary War and Civil War soldiers,  15 mayors of Nashville, one Tennessee governor, two of the original Fisk Jubilee Singers, many enslaved and free persons of African descent interred prior to the Civil War, and many others who played important roles in the story of our city’s past.

For history devotees, the opportunity to help preserve the oldest continuously operated public cemetery in Nashville is an honor and delight.

“I love history, and being able to have a hands-on experience in preserving it is truly gratifying,” says Liz Parrott, a devoted volunteer and member of the Nashville City Cemetery Association board of directors.

Volunteers help raise awareness for the Nashville City Cemetery. Here you see one reenacting a war hero whose remains were buried on these grounds.

Susan Laux, a sixth-generation Nashvillian who has family members buried at the cemetery, agrees. “I was thrilled to find out that Hands On Nashville helps to coordinate an ongoing cleanup of the cemetery,” says Susan. “My love of this great city runs deep, and my desire to see our treasures preserved is of great importance to me.”

Volunteers are essential for this membership organization that works to protect, preserve, restore, and raise public awareness for the Nashville City Cemetery in collaboration with the Historical Commission of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County. Enthusiastic and willing volunteers help the organization by staffing fundraising and educational events, and by helping to keep the cemetery beautiful and welcoming for visitors to come and learn the history of the people buried there, and to see their relatives’ resting place.

If you’re interested in getting involved, take a look at these upcoming opportunities to immerse yourself in Nashville’s history:

Monthly Cemetery Cleanup Days
On August 11, September 8, and October 6, volunteers will clean up the cemetery grounds by raking, picking up trash, sweeping off the tombstones, picking up branches, etc. The October cleanup is especially important – many volunteers are needed as the grounds will be prepared for the Living History Tour taking place the following weekend.

> Sign up for the Aug. 11 cleanup day.

> Sign up for the Sept. 8 cleanup day.

> Sign up for the Oct. 6 cleanup day.

Living History Tour – October 13
Volunteers are needed to assist as tour guides, at admissions, etc. During the tour, certain historical figures who are buried at the cemetery are portrayed by actors who tell their stories to visitors.

 > Volunteer for the Living History Tour.

Volunteer Leader Spotlight: Camilla Baird

Eight years ago, Camilla made the big move to Music City. This “concert junkie,” as she calls herself, was out to see new things and put her mark on the world.

It turns out that her passion for live music wasn’t the only thing that made Camilla fall in love with Nashville. The city’s culture of service also made it a great fit for this spunky St. Louis native. Camilla’s fond childhood memories of her parents showing her the importance of serving others inspired her to get involved in community service in her new city. Shortly after moving to town, Camilla found herself involved in all sorts of community happenings that helped those in need.

Nashville CARES became a regular project for Camilla.  “After moving to Nashville,” she mentions, “it was important to follow their lead and give back and grow my roots here.”

For the past 6 months, Camilla has stepped up even more and taken a new role at Nashville CARES as the Volunteer Leader. Each week, she leads volunteer groups in helping to pack food that is given to individuals and families in need. She loves this project because “it serves so many in the Nashville area and beyond.” The CARES packages provide food to help an HIV/AIDS victim and/or family member for weeks. “It feels so good to know that my minor efforts are helping in a major way to provide essential nutrition for those in need,” says Camilla.

Camilla moved here eight years ago and it took her a few years to find her niche at Nashville CARES. Why? Because she was eager to experiment with all the HON.org opportunities. Camilla encourages everyone to “be open and willing to try new things until you find a good fit.” With so much need and an accessible opportunity calendar at anyone’s fingertips, there is certainly something for everyone to try. “I love feeling like I made a difference, even if it’s just a little part of my time,” says Camilla.

Making CARES Packages occurs every Tuesday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. If you want to participate, click here to sign up for this project.  HON’s Volunteer Leaders and volunteers are an integral part of Hands On Nashville’s mission to impact community needs through volunteerism. Thank you, Camilla, for your leadership and volunteerism!

Nonprofit Partner Spotlight: Youth Encouragement Services

For many low-income families in Nashville, after-school time and summer break present major challenges. Parents are often faced with choosing between going to work and being home for their children. That’s where organizations like the Youth Encouragement Services (YES) come in. For many inner-city children who would otherwise be home alone, YES offers a positive and safe alternative by providing experiences that encourage academic, physical, spiritual, and social development during out-of-school time.

Summer fun with the kids!

Since 1956, Youth Encouragement Services (YES) has been supporting at-risk children in Nashville, encouraging them to realize their full potential and advocating a better future for themselves and their families. “My children love YES so much that they beg me to take them early and let them stay late,” says Michael, a parent whose children attend YES.

YES has three centers open to children in grades K-12:

• The St. Luke’s Center is located in West Nashville and services The Nations area;
• The McIver Center is located in South Nashville and services the Woodbine Community; and
• The Lindsley Avenue Center is located in Downtown Nashville and services the J.C. Napier/Tony Sudekum Public Housing community.

There are many opportunities for volunteers to help provide positive experiences for the children at all three YES centers. Currently, YES children are enjoying Summer Bible Camp, summer field trips, and outdoor activities. Ask any of the students about the camp zip line and you will see joy in their eyes! As sixth grader Antonio exclaims, “YES is a great place to hang out with friends!”

Mentoring is a great need for this community and a wonderful way you can make a difference in the life of a child.

Looking for volunteer opportunities after work? Lead a wide selection of activities such as chapel, computer classes, arts and crafts, or recreational games. Why not volunteer as a tutor, cook a meal, or provide homework support? Companies or other volunteer groups can also host service days at one of our centers. YES knows that volunteers are special people and that the success of the program depends on them. Interacting with a child, one-on-one, is important to successful development. Please consider what talents you have to share with a child. You CAN make a difference in a young life!

> Check out these volunteer opportunities with YES currently listed on Hands On Nashville’s website.

> For other opportunities and more information about volunteering at YES, please contact YES Operations Manager and Volunteer Coordinator, Samantha Johnson, at (615) 315-5333 or email samantha@youthencouragement.org.

> Read more about YES.

HON Volunteers Recognized at Nashville Fire Department Annual Commendation Ceremony

Volunteers helped paint Nashville Fire Stations over Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service.

Today, the Nashville Fire Department held their annual Commendation Ceremony. At the event, Mayor Karl Dean and Interim Director Billy Lynch recognized 77 organizations, citizens, fire fighters, fire officers, and paramedics for their everyday service that betters our neighborhoods.

Hands On Nashville and its Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service volunteers were among those who were recognized with an “Organization Appreciation Award.” Between January 14 and 16, 2012, more than 750 volunteers completed 28 painting projects held in 12 fire stations across the city. As part of these projects, volunteers directly interacted with Nashville Fire Department staff, receiving fire safety instructions and witnessing firsthand the remarkable work fire fighters, fire officers, and paramedics do to protect and serve our community every day.

Hands On Nashville volunteers often state that by serving, “they get more than they give.” That sentiment was repetitively echoed in MLK Day volunteers’ testimonials, including this one:

Another MLK Jr. Day volunteer team poses for the camera. More than 750 volunteers completed 28 painting projects held in 12 fire stations across the city for this year’s celebration.

“I enjoyed being there, meeting new people, and getting to be a part of something important. I feel like the firemen appreciated it [our painting]. Being able to give back to them with my service is the closest way that I can say ‘thank you’ for what they do.”

‘Thank you’ to the Nashville Fire Department for opening its doors to Hands On Nashville volunteers and to the event’s presenting sponsor, Jackson. We appreciated the opportunities to apply fresh coats of Glidden Professional Paint in 12 deserving fire stations and to show our community’s appreciation for your life- and property-saving work. You are our heroes.

In closing, please know how honored Hands On Nashville and its volunteers are to receive a Nashville Fire Department “Organization Appreciation Award.” We’re humbled to be among this grouping of 77 remarkable award recipients – many of whom put themselves in harm’s way to protect and serve Nashville.

We Value Sustainability

By Jaclyn Khoury
Hands On Nashville’s Director of Sustainability

Hands On Nashville has recently launched its new sustainability webpage! Check out our new initiatives and happenings.

In the past two years, Hands On Nashville has created three exciting programs to help serve the needs of our community in the wake of the May 2010 floods. Each of these programs are focused on engaging volunteers in long-term recovery while sharing a common thread of sustainability. Each have a strong emphasis on conservation of resources, environmental stewardship, and awareness within our communities; as a result we are able to better address current community needs while reducing the threat of future natural disasters.

In addition to our programming we strive to make our workspace as healthy and green as possible. Earlier this year, we moved into a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver office space, an old historical adaptive reuse building.

Our office has also committed to taking the Mayor’s Workplace Challenge this spring, and we were proud to receive the highest rating of gold. The challenge is a new city initiative to recognize and encourage organizations’ efforts to be green, healthy, and involved in the community. Businesses and organizations can click here to sign up for the challenge. An online scorecard includes questions about workplace policies and practices as it relates to being green, healthy, and promoting volunteerism.

To sign up to volunteer with any of our in-house programs, click here. We look forward to seeing you on the volunteer project site!

About Jaclyn: As Hands On Nashville’s Director of Sustainability, Jaclyn developed the organization’s Home Energy Savings Program, which launched in early 2011. She works with volunteers, homeowners, and her hands to create more sustainable homes in Nashville’s low-income neighborhoods. Before her move to Nashville in 2009, Jaclyn worked with Habitat for Humanity as a Construction Facilitator in Minneapolis and Central America. As a LEED ID+C and certified energy auditor, Jaclyn is determined and devoted in her commitment to integrate sustainability into the fabric of working communities. She recently earned a Master’s Degree in Sustainability and Green Building from Lipscomb University. She has a passion for mangos, hand stands, and hand-written letters.

Serving Up Love at Hope Lodge

Volunteer Spotlight: Kevin Groom
Kevin Groom makes a mean home-cooked meal, and the cancer patients and their families that he cooks for each month at Hope Lodge savor every bite.

This IT expert and country music lover started volunteering with Hands On Nashville in 1997, a few years after moving here. Looking for an opportunity to meet new people, learn more about Nashville, and connect with others to whom he might lend a helping hand, Kevin got involved by helping to plan Hands On Nashville Day two years in a row.

Then in 2000, he got even more involved by serving as co-chair of the event. “This was my most memorable volunteer experience,” Kevin says. “We had almost 1,000 volunteers working on about 50 projects throughout Nashville that year. Helping to plan the event was a huge time commitment and required a great deal of effort. But on the day of the event, the members of the planning committee traveled around to several projects to take pictures and meet the volunteers. Visiting all the different sites really helped me to see just how great an impact Hands On Nashville really has on the city.”

In 2007, Kevin began volunteering regularly at The American Cancer Society’s Memorial Foundation Hope Lodge. This amazing organization provides free housing for out-of-town patients undergoing cancer treatment and their families. HON volunteers provide home-cooked meals to help make the guests’ stay more comfortable.

“I like volunteering at the Hope Lodge because it’s a great opportunity to help others and immediately see a benefit,” he says. “After spending all day at the hospital, the families really appreciate having a home-cooked meal instead of having to prepare something themselves or go out to a restaurant.”

Kevin also learns a lot from the people he serves, and says they serve as an example for how to deal with adversity.  “I’m always amazed at the positive attitudes of the patients and their families even though they are going through such tough times. “

Kevin’s advice to new volunteers? “Sign up for several different projects to see which ones you like the best. Volunteering is an excellent way to gain life experience and meet people from all walks of life.”

Interested in joining Kevin and the other cooks at Hope Lodge? Dinner at Hope Lodge occurs on the third Monday, and the first and second Wednesday of each month from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. 

Volunteer Spotlight: Tiannan Zhou

Young people are a big part of the volunteer movement here in Nashville. They bring a fresh perspective, endless energy, and a “why not?” attitude to many of Middle Tennessee’s most pressing issues. (To see some of this energy in action, take a look at these photos of this week’s Hands On Spring Break.)

In the spirit of this month’s Global Youth Service Day Presented by Starbucks, when Nashville youth will join millions of other teens around the world in a day of powerful volunteerism, we bring to you April’s Volunteer Leader feature: Tiannan Zhou, a sophomore at Hume Fogg.

Ask her how she came to serve as the HON Volunteer Leader at Backfield in Motion’s Saturday school, and the answer is quite simple: curiosity. “I had never volunteered before, and I really wanted to try something new,” she says. Plus, she’d heard from friends who had volunteered before that it was fun, so she decided to jump in.

Each Saturday, you can find Tiannan and other teen volunteers working on math and reading with the inner-city boys served by Backfield in Motion. While Tiannan has helped the boys with multiplication and addition, she’s been surprised to find that she’s learned some good things from them, too. “Attitude is often the most important thing. A smiling face and readiness to learn is what matters the most,” she says.

Youth ages 11-18 interested in volunteering should email caroline@hon.org or visit our website to sign up.