30 Years Stronger, 30 Years Together: Celebrating SRNA Volunteers
It’s Volunteer Appreciation Month, a time to shine a light on the unsung heroes who dedicate their time, skills, and energy to make our communities better. As we approach our 30th anniversary, we proudly celebrate SRNA volunteers. SRNA’s Executive Director, Chitra Krishnan, shares, “As we reflect on the incredible journey of SRNA on our 30th anniversary, I am filled with profound gratitude for all our volunteers. For over 18 years, our nonprofit was solely run by the dedication and passion of volunteers like yourselves. Your dedication, kindness, and generosity remind us of the incredible difference that can be made when individuals come together with a shared vision and a common purpose.” Making an Impact Volunteering embodies the spirit of generosity and a commitment to positive change. It’s about supporting one another, fostering empathy, and building stronger, more connected communities. Volunteers are the backbone of our organization. Their selfless efforts are essential to our work, and we are immensely thankful for their generosity. SRNA community member Elizabeth shares, “To all the volunteers who keep this important organization going, thank you. We appreciate your heartfelt work. When I was diagnosed with TM over 20 years ago, this organization was just getting started. And look at it now!” From hosting support group meetings to making peer connections, writing blogs, reviewing transcripts, hosting events in their communities, and lending their expertise to special projects, the dedication of SRNA volunteers is truly inspiring. Our Support Group Leaders are the heart of our support network, providing a safe space for community members to share their stories, find common ground, and offer invaluable support to one another. Through our Peer Connect Program, volunteers have provided individuals with rare neuroimmune disorders the opportunity to find solidarity, inspiration, and guidance from others who understand their journey firsthand. Our volunteers go above and beyond in various capacities, from writing blogs to preparing transcripts for our podcasts and helping at our Quality of Life Family Camp. Each person’s dedication and expertise enrich our community and amplify our impact. Meet our Volunteers This month, we are proud to share two special “Community Spotlight” editions of our Ask the Expert podcast series: Voices of SRNA Volunteers: Part 1 and Voices of SRNA Volunteers: Part 2. Listen to volunteers Alexandra Goulimi, Angela Jackson, Minaal Zahid, and Doug Kirby as they discuss the support they found through SRNA’s programs, what they hope to see in the future related to rare neuroimmune disorders and SRNA, and advice for anyone who might be interested in getting involved. “I think the most rewarding thing is seeing my brother and my family also respond to my volunteering and getting more involved in the community. So, not necessarily like SRNA, but just the general neuroimmunology community. It’s just really cool to see them get out of their shell and connect with other people.” shares Minaal. Get Involved This April, we invite you to join us in celebrating the incredible contributions of volunteers worldwide. This month, take the time to personally thank volunteers by sending a note, email, or shout-out on social media. You can contribute by sharing your time, committing to volunteer, donating, and doing what you can to make a positive impact on a one-time or ongoing basis. However you’d like to get involved, you are invited to join us as we honor the spirit of volunteerism and the difference it makes for the SRNA community. As we celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Month, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to every volunteer who has contributed their time, talents, and compassion to SRNA. Your dedication is the heartbeat of our organization, and we are profoundly grateful for the positive impact you make every day.
