Why Do You Serve?

By: Beryl Young, Dulles Area Kiwanis President

Those of us in Kiwanis have joined because we all believe in the Kiwanis mission of "Serving the Children of the World". However, our reasons for doing service in the first place are varied and fortunately being a member of such a new chapter of Kiwanis give us the unique opportunity to define and develop our role in the local community. We decide the projects that will give us the most enjoyment and provide the most benefit.

Service is a very personal thing. Some serve to benefit a specific cause that is meaningful to them. Others serve because it's "the right thing to do". And then there are those who serve for the social rewards they reap. There are many other reasons to serve, but the most important part is that it is fulfilling to the individual doing the service.

So I ask you this week, why do you serve? At what age did you begin doing community service? What kinds of projects are most meaningful to you? If you are in Kiwanis, how can we make your experience more powerful? If you are not in Kiwanis, what would make you drop everything on a lazy weekend or busy weekday and serve?

As the Dulles Area Kiwanis continues to grow, build, adapt and take on projects that allow us to make our community the best it can be it is your answers that will help us chart our path and create a meaningful experience for those who serve with us .