National Volunteer Week is April 7-13, 2019. We here at the YMCA of Greater Richmond wanted to take this time to highlight some of our amazing volunteers.

We spoke with a Togetherhood Committee Volunteer, Robin Payne, who shared her Volunteer Story with us.

Robin Payne – Togetherhood Committee Volunteer for the Atlee Station Family YMCA

Q: Tell us about yourself.

A: I have been happily married for 35 years. I have two children: Jack 28 and Evelyn 24. I own a graphic design company with my husband, Phillip. I love to hang out with friends/family, garden, cook/bake, workout at the Y and volunteer. I have been a member of the Y for over 18 years.

Q: How did you come to volunteer at the Y?

A: Volunteering has always been important to me. I taught my children at an early age that giving back is a great way to make our community a better place.

I have volunteered by myself for years and was looking to be part of a group. I am thrilled to be part of Togetherhood at the Atlee Family YMCA. We’ve given back to some well deserving groups: Habitat for Humanity, Angel Tree, Mechanicsville Food Bank, etc.

Q: What makes your Y volunteer opportunity special?

A: I get so much out of being with such an amazing group of people who all care about our community as much as I do. We meet every quarter or so and decide on which activities/organizations we want to help. It is a group effort. We also involve the members at the Altee Station Family Y, which is so important.

Q: What’s something you hope individuals you interact with at the Y take away from this experience?

A: I hope that they will develop a love of volunteering and realize the importance of giving back. I hope they realize that it doesn’t take a huge amount of their time or resources. Just doing one little thing for someone else can impact so many people. Together we can make our community a better place!

Q: What’s something you’re taking away from this volunteer experience?

A: A sense of community, comradery and investment in the world around me. I get some much more out of volunteering than I give back. It feels good to do good.

Q: And our final question, what would you say to people interested in volunteering for the Y?

A: Try to find a cause that means something to you and try one volunteer event. I feel certain you will be hooked!

National Volunteer Week is April 7-13, 2019. Consider celebrating with one of our many opportunities at the YMCA.  Find the perfect opportunity for you here.