Join/Renew
When I first agreed to volunteer with NACE’s Workforce Development and Intermediaries Committee, I thought I knew exactly what I was signing up for. I expected to contribute, support initiatives, and give back to a professional community that has given so much to me.
What I didn’t expect was how much I would gain in return.
April is National Volunteer Appreciation Month, and it’s the perfect time to reflect on what volunteerism really means. For me, it comes down to this: Volunteering isn’t just about giving your time, it’s about expanding your world.
One of the most impactful parts of my experience has been the opportunity to connect with professionals across the country who share a passion for workforce development. This work is complex and constantly evolving, so being able to collaborate with others who are tackling similar challenges, just in different places, has been incredibly energizing.
There’s something uniquely powerful about those conversations. You’re not just exchanging ideas, you’re building perspective. You start to see your work differently, ask better questions, and think more broadly about solutions. For me, that national connection has been one of the biggest highlights of serving on the committee.
And then there’s the personal growth.
Volunteering has stretched me in ways I didn’t anticipate. I learned about workforce intermediaries and their impact on the workforce. I was offered the opportunity to present at NACE 2026. It’s professional development, but in a way that feels real, rewarding, collaborative, and impactful.
It’s also a reminder that you don’t have to be an expert to make a meaningful contribution—you just have to be willing to show up.
That’s really at the heart of my philosophy on volunteerism. It’s not about having all the answers or making a grand impact overnight. It’s about being present, sharing your perspective, and learning alongside others who care about the same mission.
If you’ve ever considered getting involved with NACE, this is your sign. Start where you are. Say yes. You might go in thinking about what you can give, but you’ll likely walk away with far more than you expected, because in the end, volunteering isn’t just about service. It’s about connection, growth, and becoming part of something bigger.
