This summer, we invite you to share your photos and videos of how you give back to the community. Show us on Twitter and Instagram by tagging @PTStandTogether in your post with the hashtag #IST4. We want to see how YOU Stand Together. This social media contest runs from June 20 until September 9, 2016.
A select number of the participants and their submissions will be showcased on our website. They will also receive team signed items, game tickets and a meet and greet with their favorite player!
Our latest winner: Marlo Eckert.
How often do you volunteer?
I volunteer weekly with multiple organizations such as Special Olympics Oregon – Portland State University - Unified Sports and the Portland Rose Festival Foundation.
Why is giving back important to you? What inspires you to get involved in volunteer projects?
I love volunteering because it is a simple gesture of giving back that improves another person’s life or community. I love going the extra mile to help people and volunteering allows me to do that with the organizations that I am a part of. Volunteering costs nothing but ones time and everyone has some time (whether it is two hours a week or once a year) to offer to the community they live and interact with. I believe volunteering is one of the best ways to enrich not only the lives you are impacting by the work you’re doing but your own life as well. You’re a part of something that is bigger than yourself and that is one of the most rewarding experience one can have.
In your submission, what volunteer project were you working on?
Special Olympics Oregon – Portland State University – Unified Sports
How did you get involved in that project?
Portland State is one of three universities in Oregon that are a part of the Special Olympics Oregon – Unified Sports Program for college age athletes and partners. We are looking for more athletes from the PPS Community Transition Program to join our teams to discover new skills, abilities and confidence, encourage teamwork and display acceptance of all people.
If there was one thing you could tell readers to inspire them to give back through volunteerism, what would it be?
I encourage everyone to get involved volunteering in something they are passionate about. For me, my passion is helping others so I participate in activities that allow me to strive in that area. Find your niche and build on that passion. You can never go wrong when giving back.
