At Back on My Feet, our dedicated volunteers bring their unique passion and skills to make a meaningful impact on our members’ lives. Anabel, a compassionate social work student from the University of Houston, shares her incredible journey and why volunteering with Back on My Feet is a life-changing experience.
Passion Meets Purpose
For Anabel, volunteering with Back on My Feet was a natural fit. Her studies in social work had already ignited her passion for helping people and connecting with the community on a personal level. She mentions, “Back on My Feet perfectly aligns with what I want to do with my community. It’s a bonus that it’s fitness-related as well.” Volunteering has allowed her to forge connections with the community while pursuing her own fitness goals.
Transforming Lives and Gaining Perspective
Volunteering with Back on My Feet has left an indelible mark on Anabel’s life. She emphasizes how it has heightened her compassion for the people around her, encouraging her to reflect more deeply on her own life. Anabel’s experience with our members has taught her the importance of compassion and the value of meeting everyone’s needs. She shares, “There’s no reason to have any sort of animosity towards anyone. Everyone deserves compassion and to have their needs met.”
Changing Perceptions of Homelessness
Anabel candidly admits that she had limited knowledge about the stigma associated with homelessness before joining Back on My Feet. However, her time volunteering has reshaped her perception. She says, “A lot of people are under the impression that homelessness is a character flaw, but once you become involved, it’s impossible to hold on to that stigma. There is such a wide range of what it could look like and what it is.”
Advice for Prospective Volunteers
Anabel’s advice to those considering volunteering with Back on My Feet is clear and resounding: “Absolutely do it! It’s so worth it.” She acknowledges that it can be challenging, from the early morning runs to the self-doubt about making a difference as a peer mentor. But she urges prospective volunteers not to let their worries hold them back. Anabel affirms, “You absolutely are enough. Don’t let your anxieties get in your way.”
A Memorable Member Moment
One of Anabel’s most cherished memories involves her first peer mentee. Nervous but determined, she embarked on this journey, guided by her mentee’s needs. She shares the incredible success story of her mentee securing full-time employment with benefits, a significant milestone. They had worked diligently on his resume and interview skills, and his achievement filled Anabel with pride and purpose. She recalls celebrating this milestone with a heartfelt gesture, “I brought him a cheesecake to celebrate.” Her mentee’s journey continues to inspire Anabel to make a difference and keep helping people.
Anabel’s story showcases the transformative power of volunteering with Back on My Feet. If her journey has inspired you, we invite you to join us in making a positive impact in your community. Whether you’re passionate about fitness, mentoring, or simply lending a helping hand, Back on My Feet welcomes volunteers who are ready to change lives and be changed by the experience. Don’t let your doubts hold you back; you are enough. Be part of our incredible volunteer community and help individuals experiencing homelessness rewrite their stories of hope and resilience.
