Why do you believe in the power of volunteering and how has it shaped your perspective?
Volunteering connects — regardless of origin, lifestyle or views. When it comes to volunteering, it's not where you come from that counts, but that you stand up for a good cause together with others. There is no payment in the sense of money, but the sense of belonging, community, and the knowledge of having contributed to something greater is priceless.
Since my school days, I have been volunteering in a wide variety of areas and have learned a lot in the process — about others and about myself. Volunteering has shown me that not everyone has the same opportunities in life, that our environment needs active care and that it is often the small actions that make the biggest difference. The gratitude that I was able to experience has confirmed to me time and again: Volunteering is selfish in a way — because in the end, it fulfills the person who exists at least as much as the person who receives.
More about Melanie:
At lets, I make sure that we offer meaningful, sustainable projects with reliable partners — projects that really make a difference. I don't have a “favorite” volunteer job because I get involved where I'm needed: reading aloud for children, biotope care at BUND, yoga with seniors, support for women in need or gardening in the family center. Volunteering is so diverse that there is something for everyone. And that is exactly what we want to make as easy as possible with lets.