Celebrating SRNA Volunteers for International Volunteer Day

On Tuesday, we recognized International Volunteer Day, a global observance that celebrates the efforts and contributions of volunteers worldwide. This week, we acknowledge and recognize the power of volunteerism in creating positive change and making an impact for the rare neuroimmune disorders community. The 2023 theme for International Volunteer Day is “the power of collective action: if everyone did.” This theme underscores the transformative potential of global volunteerism, envisioning a world where over eight billion individuals contribute their time, skills, and energy to causes that are meaningful and create a better world.

Volunteering is a selfless act of dedicating time, skills, and energy to a cause or community, embodying the spirit of generosity and a commitment to making a positive impact. Volunteering provides a unique opportunity for individuals to connect with their communities, build empathy, and develop a sense of purpose. The rewards of volunteering extend beyond the immediate impact on communities; volunteers often find personal growth, fulfillment, and a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness that binds us all.

Over the course of 2023, volunteers have advanced the mission of SRNA in many ways. Six volunteers stepped up to host four awesome Walk-Run-N-Roll events and raise awareness for rare neuroimmune disorders. Twenty-two Support Group Leaders hosted over sixty meetings with attendees joining from across the globe. Seventeen Peer Connect Leaders offered hope and support to individuals through the Peer Connect Program. More than ten people volunteered as a part of the 2023 Quality of Life Family Camp, and many others jumped in to help with special projects. Five individuals committed to writing for the SRNA blog in addition to many others who contributed their stories this year. It is incredible to see the ways that the SRNA community was supported and strengthened by a group of committed volunteers this year.

Here are some of the reasons that SRNA volunteers choose to give back:

“I volunteer with SRNA because I want to utilize my experiences and knowledge of SRNA resources to give back to a community that helped me so much during uncertain times in my TM journey.” – Jen, Peer Connect Leader

“I volunteer with SRNA because it offers personal growth and fulfillment. It allows me to develop new skills, broaden my knowledge, and gain a sense of purpose through helping others. Also, volunteering with SRNA allows me to connect with individuals who share similar experiences. We are a support network for patients, caregivers, and loved ones, offering guidance, understanding, and encouragement.” – Paul, Support Group Leader and Peer Connect Leader

“My time at volunteering at SRNA has shown me how important of an organization it is that truly cares for patients, caregivers, and healthcare workers. As a future pediatric neurologist, being able to work closely with patients a firsthand and provide knowledge to them and my fellow colleagues is incredibly enriching. SRNA has given me and various other caregivers a voice and power to connect and enrich the lives of everyone affected by rare neuroimmune diseases.” – Minaal, Special projects volunteer

“I volunteer with SRNA to help raise awareness for rare neuroimmune diseases and to support those living with these diseases. Navigating chronic illness is a full-time job and can feel isolating and unfair, but support from people who understand makes a world of difference. I think SRNA is doing a wonderful job in enhancing care for patients and their families, and I’m very proud to be a volunteer. I encourage patients needing support, as well as patients hoping to support others, to reach out to SRNA. ” – Becca, Peer Connect Leader

“I volunteer because in our NMO journey, we have been blessed in many ways and I want to give back.  Having a rare autoimmune disease can be very lonely and I want to help others see that they are not alone.” – Holly, Support Group Leader

“I hosted a second Wall-Run-N-Roll with SRNA this October in Charlotte, North Carolina in honor of the anniversary of my diagnosis. I think it is important to raise awareness about rare neuroimmune disorders and inspire action.” – Sarah, Walk-Run-N-Roll host

“I want to give back to the community that helped me become confident with my disability.” – Abby, Peer Connect Leader

“I volunteer because I have a rare disorder that a lot of people don’t know exists. I want to help educate people and support others with a rare disorder as much as I can. Also, I’m at a point in my life where I have time to dedicate to being a volunteer.” – Angela, Peer Connect Leader and Walk-Run-N-Roll host

We are grateful for every person who chooses to be involved with SRNA! Whether you are a regular volunteer, or if you do something as simple as share about our mission with others on social media, you are a part of “the power of collective action”. We are all stronger together – if you would like to get involved or would like to share a message of gratitude with the SRNA volunteer community, please contact us at [email protected].