This line from Winston Churchill (new window) captures the reality that Donna a New Brunswick (new window) Computer Comfort volunteer, has been living for well over a year. Donna, who was an Employ-Ability participant in 2010, has multiple sclerosis (new window). Midway through the Employ-Ability Program, Donna got the devastating news that her private insurance company would not allow her to go back to work. She wasn’t allowed to earn a single dime. If she did, her entire livelihood would be taken from her. The security of a regular income would come to an end.
This is a situation no one should be faced with—the choice between making a “living” and making a “life.” However, through volunteering, Donna has been able fill that part of herself left empty by not being able to work. She channels her knowledge, skills, and passion for technology by regularly volunteering (new window) with Computers for Schools and more recently as a Computer Comfort volunteer with the Neil Squire Society (new window).
One individual benefiting from Donna’s volunteerism is Eileen. Eileen has a learning disability, and after raising two grown sons, she decided it was time to focus on her own dreams and goals. In the fall, Eileen plans to attend New Brunswick Community College (new window) with the aspiration of eventually working in the human services field. She started at the Neil Squire Society in the Community Adult Learning Program to brush up on her academic skills for college. Then she began working with Donna in the Computer Comfort Program, learning the computer basics needed to be successful both in college and in the workplace. More recently, Eileen joined the Employ-Ability Program, working closely with Neil Squire Society staff to develop a realistic action plan for employment to help her make her dreams come true.
Both of these women have given and continue to give of themselves— Donna tirelessly volunteering and Eileen on a career path devoted to helping others. In this way, these women are ‘making their life by what they give,’ shaping a life of meaning and fulfillment.
If you would like to make a donation to support others like Donna and Eileen, you may do so here.