Giving back to the community is the spirit behind our “Love Your Community” program. Every Pythianite receives one paid Volunteer Day annually to take some time and give back to their community. Team members all over the world donate their time as coaches, mentors, volunteers, and board members to support community fundraising initiatives. Throughout the year, they lend their skills and talent to local community and industry organizations.
Annually, every December, we put out a call to action to encourage all our team members who haven’t yet used their volunteer day to give back to their community by using their volunteer day. We had 26 Pythianites participate in the December ‘Giving Back’ Initiative.
Want to know more about where and how some of our Pythianites volunteered? Then look no further and keep reading!
Robin Adnson
Title: Business Analyst
Location: USA
Where did you Volunteer?
I volunteered with the Alamo Area Corvette Club in an event called “Feed the Homeless”
Can you describe your volunteer experience?
As a club, we made over 200 brown bag lunches, care packages (toothbrush, mouthwash, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, socks, etc.), and snack bags with drinks to hand out to people experiencing homelessness in downtown San Antonio. We walked around downtown and handed all of this out to those who struggle to get even a drink of clean water every day. Their gratitude was heartwarming. Some cried and told us how they ended up on the streets. These stories were very eye-opening.
What motivates you?
I have had points in life where I have struggled, and without the outreach of people who cared, I may have lost hope. I participate in multiple charities throughout the year, and just seeing the difference you can make—if only by putting a smile on their faces for a few minutes—motivates me.
What advice would you give to people who want to get into volunteering?
There are so many volunteer opportunities out there. What was key for me was to find something that allowed me to take things that I love (cars, technology, etc.) and find opportunities that I felt passionate about. Even if it is an hour a month, you would be surprised how much of a difference you can make in people’s lives in that time.
Viswash Beesetti
Title: Talent Acquisition Partner
Location: India
Where did you Volunteer?
I volunteer at an animal sanctuary & really enjoyed it.
Can you describe your volunteer experience?
All I wanted to do was work with animals. I knew I wanted to work at an animal hospital or a facility that trains animals to work with the disabled. So, volunteer at my local animal sanctuary. So, I spent the summer volunteering, which was probably the best decision I have ever made.
Do not wear your favorite shirt when training the dogs to sit and stay because the big slobbering kiss that the Boxer will give you is going all over it. Despite all this, it’s an amazing and rewarding experience. While there are many tough chores, like cleaning up after the animals and washing their dirty beds, there are also fun ways to directly interact with them. I always love walking around and deciding which dog to take to the training room to teach new tricks. It’s always difficult because the dogs always get so excited to see you, and it can be hard to pick one. It was a great experience in an animal sanctuary.
What motivates you?
To give back something to the community.
What advice would you give to people who want to get into volunteering?
Know the issues that are important to you.
Combine your career and/or life goals with your community involvement.
Balance your schedule – Do not over-commit!
Listen to your heart by giving and volunteering!
Paulina Catalan
Title: Procurement Coordinator
Location: Canada
Where have you volunteered?
I am a member of the Rotary Club of Kanata. I have been a Rotarian since 2016 and volunteered for many different humanitarian projects back in my home country of Costa Rica and now in Canada.
Can you describe your volunteer experience?
I collected used stuff people don’t want; I call it “Good Junk,” and I sold it on the Marketplace on Facebook, and with that money, 10 Costa Rican kids are getting a school kit that contains a school uniform (shirt/pants-skirt/underwear/socks/shoes). These kids come from very poor families and are very good students. I am always collecting “Good Junk”, so if you have something that is good, and you don’t use it, give it to me. We can do great things with a couple of dollars!
What motivates you?
Serving others gives a sense of purpose to my life and profoundly affects my overall psychological well-being. I feel happier, at peace, more human and grounded.
What advice would you give to people who want to volunteer?
Volunteering is an excellent opportunity for growth. Volunteering stimulates positive thinking; it helps us understand and internalize what matters. It’s an opportunity to develop leadership and teamwork skills and make good friends. When you volunteer, you will feel the most potent force in your heart: Love and love will heal you and make this world better.
Aishwarya Kala
Title: Lead Database Consultant
Location: India
Where have you volunteered?
Volunteered with a Local Animal Shelter
Can you describe your volunteer experience?
Therapeutic & I always learn something when there. Started the day with a short essential volunteer training – do’s & don’ts & tour of the facility. Since the animals were mostly in distress, and I am not a familiar face, I couldn’t really be around them at first; hence, for the ones in the yard, I could help clean up the kennels.
The most heartbreaking yet fun section was the yard where they had kept the strays recovering from accidents or diseases. Although they weren’t in the best of health, I’ve never seen soo many little tails wagging together. So it was pure joy working through the section and sitting down there and helping them exercise.
What motivates you?
I love being around animals
What advice would you give to people who want to volunteer?
I’d say drop your inhibitions and enjoy your day :)
Marcos Siqueira
Title: Database Consultant
Location: Brazil
Where did you Volunteer?
I went to Aldeias Infantis SOS Brasil. “Aldeias Infantis SOS leads the largest child care movement in the world and works with boys and girls who have lost parental care or are at risk of losing it, in addition to responding to emergency situations.”
Can you describe your volunteer experience?
It is a very good feeling because I’m giving some help (with food and clothes) to children without a family.
What motivates you?
My motivation is to provide support for those children. In the future, they will be adults taking care of our world.
What advice would you give to people who want to get into volunteering?
Please remember to look out for people who need help; I am grateful for the opportunity to support them. Every small action can benefit someone who finds themselves in a fragile condition.
Interested in being part of the Pythian team?
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