To the editor:
Today’s busy lifestyles can make it hard to find time to volunteer, however, the benefits of volunteering are enormous to you, your family and your community. Finding the right organization to volunteer for can help you make an impact in the community, learn new skills and enhance your resume.
As an American Cancer Society volunteer, you also can honor a survivor or a loved one lost to cancer while helping us put an end to the pain and suffering caused by the disease. It’s a wonderful opportunity, especially as you are trying to determine a way to give back during the holiday season.
The American Cancer Society’s Road To RecoveryÆ program is seeking volunteer drivers all across Maine because many cancer patients don’t own a vehicle, can’t afford the extra gasoline, or don’t have access to public transportation. Some patients may be unable to drive, too ill to drive, or have no family members or friends who are able to provide regular assistance with transportation. Road To RecoveryÆ offers drivers flexible scheduling and a chance to give back while literally helping to save lives.
Volunteering doesn’t have to take over your life to be a valuable experience. In fact, just three or four hours per week can be highly beneficial to both you and your chosen cause. The important thing is to volunteer only the amount of time that feels comfortable to you. Volunteering should be a fun and rewarding experience, not another chore on your to-do list.
Volunteer drivers donate their time and the use of their cars so patients can receive the lifesaving treatments they need. Drivers also provide encouragement and support.
To volunteer, you must have a valid driver’s license, a safe and reliable vehicle, and proof of automobile insurance. Drivers must be 18 years of age or older and have a good driving history. They arrange their own schedules and can commit as many or as few hours as their schedule allows. The American Cancer Society provides free training to drivers and conducts criminal background and driving record checks.
To RSVP for the upcoming training, learn more about the benefits of volunteering and how to become a Road To Recovery volunteer, call me at 207-462-6307.
Elisa Madore
ACS program manager
— Mission Delivery
