Read more about our community impact programs at Contentful.
Developing a Volunteering Spirit
Annie Fields: Luisa, your passion for volunteering has led to incredible experiences within Contentful. Can you share more about how this passion sparked in you?
Luisa Goncalves: My desire to make a difference started at a young age. Despite being too young to volunteer at an orphanage in Portugal at 14, my passion for service was kindled early on. Attending United World College in the U.S., a school with a strong community ethos, further fueled my dedication to volunteering.
From supporting addiction centers in Mexico to working with migrants in the U.S., my volunteer journey has been diverse and eye-opening. Engaging with organizations like Habitat for Humanity and collaborating with inspirational figures like Jane Goodall has enriched my volunteering spirit throughout my educational and professional years.
Luisa (right) and Kevin Harris, Lead Recruiting Coordinator, presenting the donations from a winter collection drive in December 2023.
The Right Attitude Outweighs Specific Skills
Annie: Luisa, with your vast volunteering experiences, what do you think are the key attitudes and mindsets that make a great volunteer?
Luisa: I believe that attitude surpasses specific skills when it comes to volunteering. While helping at a shelter for domestic abuse victims at 17, I lacked expertise in the area but was able to provide essential assistance. Being open-minded, dedicated, and committed to serving others is crucial in making a meaningful impact through volunteering.
It’s not always about being an expert; it’s about being ready to help in any capacity, whether it’s painting walls or offering emotional support. Volunteering is about creating a positive change, no matter how small.
Annie: Your perspective truly aligns with our #BeHumble value at Contentful. How do you cope with the emotional challenges that can come with volunteering?
Luisa: Dealing with the emotional weight of volunteering, especially when faced with the struggles of others, can be challenging. Reflecting and discussing these experiences with peers and mentors have been crucial in helping me process and understand what I encounter during my volunteer work. Balancing engagement with self-care is essential to prevent burnout.
In January 2024, Contentful employees volunteered at a homeless shelter in Berlin operated by the Johanniter Unfallhilfe.
The Positive Emotions of Volunteering
Annie: Luisa, the positive impact of volunteering is evident in your experiences. What emotions do you derive from volunteering?
Luisa: Volunteering brings me immense joy and fulfillment. Being able to connect with and assist others, especially children, fills me with satisfaction. Witnessing the growth and happiness of those I help motivates me to continue volunteering.
For example, working with the Portuguese committee at United World College allowed me to witness the joy and sense of belonging kids found through shared values. Knowing that my actions positively impact others drives my passion for volunteering.
Annie: Creating joy for others is a powerful incentive for volunteering. Could you elaborate on your involvement in student selection at United World College?
Luisa: I contributed to the scholarship selection process at United World College by reviewing applications, organizing selection weekends, and conducting interviews. Although most tasks were online, attending selection weekends was enriching. While currently focusing on self-care, I intend to resume volunteering in the future.
Contentful volunteers at the Habitat for Humanity Build Day in Denver, Colorado in February 2024.
Useful Advice for Starting to Volunteer
Annie: Luisa, before we conclude, do you have any advice for individuals looking to start volunteering but aren’t sure where to begin?
Luisa: Finding the right volunteering opportunity can be intimidating, but remember, specific skills aren’t always necessary. Online platforms like Vostel in Germany or organizations like Wir Packen offer varied volunteering opportunities based on existing skills or language proficiency. Volunteering is about having the right attitude and a genuine desire to help. Making a positive impact and being open to diverse experiences are vital in starting your volunteering journey.
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