Altruism is selfless concern for the welfare of others. It is a traditional virtue in many cultures, and central to many
religious traditions. This idea was often described as the Golden rule of ethics. Altruism is the opposite of
selfishness. Altruism can be distinguished from feelings of loyalty and duty. Altruism focuses on a motivation to
help others or a want to do good without reward, while duty focuses on a moral obligation towards a specific
individual, a specific organization (for example, PISI), or an abstract concept (for example, patriotism etc). Some
individuals may feel both altruism and duty, while others may not. Pure altruism is giving without regard to reward
or the benefits of recognition.
PISI depends on monetary contributions and volunteers to staff telephones, lead programs, provide tutoring,
coach sports teams, organize fund-raising events, stuff envelopes, provide professional services (social workers,
psychologists, teachers, doctors, lawyers), and in-kind gifts such as office space.
It's What in the World You Can Do!
You might be thinking, "The little bit that I can do will never help much!" or "What in the world can I do?" If you've ever spent ten minutes
reading a book to a lonely child, you know that even that small amount of compassion and attention can make a world of difference. No
one person can solve the world's problems, but what little you do can make your little corner of the world — or one far away from yours a
happier, healthier, safer place to live for those who need your help. Each of us can right a wrong, fill a plate, visit a shut — in or clean up
a park — and that does make a difference for us all!
Some of the best reasons to give are the ones you may not have considered — the ones that make it worth your while to go that extra
step. People who have spent time volunteering for a cause report that they get back in satisfaction and joy more than they ever expend in
inconvenience or effort — what you get back is immeasurable.
Why Individuals and Families Choose to Volunteer at PISI:
POPULAR PROGRAMS
prepared and delivered to three senior residences, one senior center, four churches, two cupboards, one adult day care center, and two
community centers in the area. The goal is to provide one nutritionally balanced meal to persons 60 years of age or older, in order to
maintain the health and vitality of older persons for as long as possible. Meals are offered on an anonymous donation basis to insure that
those who cannot afford to pay can also participate. Currently, an average of 4,100 meals are produced weekly with the numbers steadily
increasing as new sites are added.
Studies report that persons are living longer than ever before. Programs that meet the needs of the aging population must be directed to
sustaining the quality of life for individuals, as they grow older. Malnutrition, chronic illnesses and loneliness are daily concerns for older
persons, who may be living alone and who are struggling to stay healthy as they face the ever-increasing costs of living.
The Senior Nutrition Program is supported by monetary contributions. PISI programs are community-based and offer services to help folks
live independently in their own homes/apartments with supportive services. This alternative to institutional care offers a cost-saving choice
for those who, through the years, have contributed greatly to our communities.
recycling used clothing.
services.
“We may say that people need to show themselves worthy of respect before we can respect them. But respecting
another person is much more about who WE are than about who the other person is.” –PISI
What you'll get back will be immeasurable!
religious traditions. This idea was often described as the Golden rule of ethics. Altruism is the opposite of
selfishness. Altruism can be distinguished from feelings of loyalty and duty. Altruism focuses on a motivation to
help others or a want to do good without reward, while duty focuses on a moral obligation towards a specific
individual, a specific organization (for example, PISI), or an abstract concept (for example, patriotism etc). Some
individuals may feel both altruism and duty, while others may not. Pure altruism is giving without regard to reward
or the benefits of recognition.
PISI depends on monetary contributions and volunteers to staff telephones, lead programs, provide tutoring,
coach sports teams, organize fund-raising events, stuff envelopes, provide professional services (social workers,
psychologists, teachers, doctors, lawyers), and in-kind gifts such as office space.
It's What in the World You Can Do!
You might be thinking, "The little bit that I can do will never help much!" or "What in the world can I do?" If you've ever spent ten minutes
reading a book to a lonely child, you know that even that small amount of compassion and attention can make a world of difference. No
one person can solve the world's problems, but what little you do can make your little corner of the world — or one far away from yours a
happier, healthier, safer place to live for those who need your help. Each of us can right a wrong, fill a plate, visit a shut — in or clean up
a park — and that does make a difference for us all!
Some of the best reasons to give are the ones you may not have considered — the ones that make it worth your while to go that extra
step. People who have spent time volunteering for a cause report that they get back in satisfaction and joy more than they ever expend in
inconvenience or effort — what you get back is immeasurable.
Why Individuals and Families Choose to Volunteer at PISI:
 | Help the community and others |
| Increase self-esteem. Volunteering makes people feel better about themselves |
| Help out friends |
| Make new friends: Volunteering is usually a social activity. Volunteers have the opportunity to meet fascinating people and | |
| develop new friendships |
| Try out a Job: Volunteers considering a certain occupation can have an opportunity to volunteer in that field as an assistant |
| Polish their resumes: Adding volunteer experience to a resume shows a commitment to help others |
| Develop new skills: A volunteer job often gives PISI volunteers an opportunity to learn how to do something new. |
POPULAR PROGRAMS
- The Senior Nutrition Program
community centers in the area. The goal is to provide one nutritionally balanced meal to persons 60 years of age or older, in order to
maintain the health and vitality of older persons for as long as possible. Meals are offered on an anonymous donation basis to insure that
those who cannot afford to pay can also participate. Currently, an average of 4,100 meals are produced weekly with the numbers steadily
increasing as new sites are added.
Studies report that persons are living longer than ever before. Programs that meet the needs of the aging population must be directed to
sustaining the quality of life for individuals, as they grow older. Malnutrition, chronic illnesses and loneliness are daily concerns for older
persons, who may be living alone and who are struggling to stay healthy as they face the ever-increasing costs of living.
The Senior Nutrition Program is supported by monetary contributions. PISI programs are community-based and offer services to help folks
live independently in their own homes/apartments with supportive services. This alternative to institutional care offers a cost-saving choice
for those who, through the years, have contributed greatly to our communities.
- Clothing Program
recycling used clothing.
- The Cupboard Program
services.
“We may say that people need to show themselves worthy of respect before we can respect them. But respecting
another person is much more about who WE are than about who the other person is.” –PISI
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| 10 Tips on Volunteering Wisely |
1. Intriguing thought: Why not start one yourself?
You can rally your neighbors to clean up that vacant lot on the corner, patrol the and that might be a good place to begin your volunteer
your neighbors to clean up that vacant lot on the corner, patrol the neighborhood, paint an elderly neighbor's house, take turns keeping
an eye on the ailing person down the street, or form a group to advocate for a remedy to that dangerous intersection in your
neighborhood. There is no end to the creative avenues for volunteering, just as there is no end to the need for volunteers.
2. Consider the skills you have to offer.
If you enjoy outdoor work, have a knack for teaching, or just enjoy interacting with people, you may want to look for volunteer work that
would incorporate these aspects of your personality. Many positions require a volunteer who has previous familiarity with certain
equipment, such as computers, or who you do on the job during your workday, or something that you already enjoy as a hobby. This sort
of position allows you to jump right into the work without having to take training to prepare for the assignment.
3. Would you like to learn something new?
Perhaps you would like to learn a new skill or gain exposure to a new situation. Consider seeking a volunteer opportunity where you'll
learn something new. For example, volunteering to work on the newsletter for the local animal shelter will improve your writing and editing
abilities - skills that may help you in your career. Or, volunteering can simply offer a change from your daily routine. For example, if your
full-time job is in an office, you may decide to take on a more active volunteer assignment, such as leading tours at an art museum or
building a playground. Many nonprofits seek out people who are willing to learn. Realize beforehand, however, that such work might
require a time commitment for training before the actual volunteer assignment begins.
4. Combine your goals.
Look for volunteer opportunities that will also help you achieve your other goals for your life. For example, if you want to lose a few extra
pounds, pick an active volunteer opportunity, such as cleaning a park or working with kids. Or, if you've been meaning to take a cooking
class, try volunteering at a food bank that teaches cooking skills.
5. Don't over-commit your schedule.
Make sure the volunteer hours you want to give fit into your hectic life, so that you don't frustrate your family, exhaust yourself,
shortchange the organization you're trying to help or neglect your job. Do you want a long-term assignment or something temporary? If
you are unsure about your availability, or want to see how the work suits you before making an extensive commitment, see whether the
organization will start you out on a limited number of hours until you get the feel of things. Better to start out slowly than to commit yourself
to a schedule you can't or don't want to fulfill.
6. Nonprofits may have questions, too.
While most nonprofits are eager to find volunteer help, they have to be careful when accepting the services you offer. If you contact an
organization with an offer to volunteer your time, you may be asked to come in for an interview, fill out a volunteer application, or describe
your qualifications and your background just as you would at an interview for a paying job. It is in the organization's interest and more
beneficial to the people it serves to make certain you have the skills needed, that you are truly committed to doing the work, and that your
interests match those of the nonprofit. Furthermore, in volunteer work involving children or other at-risk populations, there are legal
ramifications for the organization to consider.
7. Consider volunteering as a family.
Think about looking for a volunteer opportunity suitable for parents and children to do together, or for a husband and wife to take on as a
team. When a family volunteers to work together at a nonprofit organization, the experience can bring them closer together, teach young
children the value of giving their time and effort, introduce everyone in the family to skills and experiences never before encountered, and
give the entire family a shared experience as a wonderful family memory.
8. Virtual volunteering?
Yes, there is such a thing! If you have computer access and the necessary skills, some organizations now offer the opportunity to do
volunteer work over the computer. This might take the form of giving free legal advice, typing a college term paper for a person with a
disability, or simply keeping in contact with a shut-in who has e-mail. This sort of volunteering might be well suited to you if you have
limited time, no transportation, or a physical disability that precludes you from getting about freely. Virtual volunteering can also be a way
for you to give time if you simply enjoy computers and want to employ your computer skills in your volunteer work.
9. I never thought of that!
Many community groups are looking for volunteers, and some may not have occurred to you. Most of us know that hospitals, libraries,
and churches use volunteers for a great deal of their work, but here are some volunteer opportunities that may not have crossed your
mind:
10. Give voice to your heart through your giving and volunteering!
Bring your heart and your sense of humor to your volunteer service, along with your enthusiastic spirit, which in itself is a priceless gift.
You can rally your neighbors to clean up that vacant lot on the corner, patrol the and that might be a good place to begin your volunteer
your neighbors to clean up that vacant lot on the corner, patrol the neighborhood, paint an elderly neighbor's house, take turns keeping
an eye on the ailing person down the street, or form a group to advocate for a remedy to that dangerous intersection in your
neighborhood. There is no end to the creative avenues for volunteering, just as there is no end to the need for volunteers.
2. Consider the skills you have to offer.
If you enjoy outdoor work, have a knack for teaching, or just enjoy interacting with people, you may want to look for volunteer work that
would incorporate these aspects of your personality. Many positions require a volunteer who has previous familiarity with certain
equipment, such as computers, or who you do on the job during your workday, or something that you already enjoy as a hobby. This sort
of position allows you to jump right into the work without having to take training to prepare for the assignment.
3. Would you like to learn something new?
Perhaps you would like to learn a new skill or gain exposure to a new situation. Consider seeking a volunteer opportunity where you'll
learn something new. For example, volunteering to work on the newsletter for the local animal shelter will improve your writing and editing
abilities - skills that may help you in your career. Or, volunteering can simply offer a change from your daily routine. For example, if your
full-time job is in an office, you may decide to take on a more active volunteer assignment, such as leading tours at an art museum or
building a playground. Many nonprofits seek out people who are willing to learn. Realize beforehand, however, that such work might
require a time commitment for training before the actual volunteer assignment begins.
4. Combine your goals.
Look for volunteer opportunities that will also help you achieve your other goals for your life. For example, if you want to lose a few extra
pounds, pick an active volunteer opportunity, such as cleaning a park or working with kids. Or, if you've been meaning to take a cooking
class, try volunteering at a food bank that teaches cooking skills.
5. Don't over-commit your schedule.
Make sure the volunteer hours you want to give fit into your hectic life, so that you don't frustrate your family, exhaust yourself,
shortchange the organization you're trying to help or neglect your job. Do you want a long-term assignment or something temporary? If
you are unsure about your availability, or want to see how the work suits you before making an extensive commitment, see whether the
organization will start you out on a limited number of hours until you get the feel of things. Better to start out slowly than to commit yourself
to a schedule you can't or don't want to fulfill.
6. Nonprofits may have questions, too.
While most nonprofits are eager to find volunteer help, they have to be careful when accepting the services you offer. If you contact an
organization with an offer to volunteer your time, you may be asked to come in for an interview, fill out a volunteer application, or describe
your qualifications and your background just as you would at an interview for a paying job. It is in the organization's interest and more
beneficial to the people it serves to make certain you have the skills needed, that you are truly committed to doing the work, and that your
interests match those of the nonprofit. Furthermore, in volunteer work involving children or other at-risk populations, there are legal
ramifications for the organization to consider.
7. Consider volunteering as a family.
Think about looking for a volunteer opportunity suitable for parents and children to do together, or for a husband and wife to take on as a
team. When a family volunteers to work together at a nonprofit organization, the experience can bring them closer together, teach young
children the value of giving their time and effort, introduce everyone in the family to skills and experiences never before encountered, and
give the entire family a shared experience as a wonderful family memory.
8. Virtual volunteering?
Yes, there is such a thing! If you have computer access and the necessary skills, some organizations now offer the opportunity to do
volunteer work over the computer. This might take the form of giving free legal advice, typing a college term paper for a person with a
disability, or simply keeping in contact with a shut-in who has e-mail. This sort of volunteering might be well suited to you if you have
limited time, no transportation, or a physical disability that precludes you from getting about freely. Virtual volunteering can also be a way
for you to give time if you simply enjoy computers and want to employ your computer skills in your volunteer work.
9. I never thought of that!
Many community groups are looking for volunteers, and some may not have occurred to you. Most of us know that hospitals, libraries,
and churches use volunteers for a great deal of their work, but here are some volunteer opportunities that may not have crossed your
mind:
 | Day care centers, Neighborhood Watch, Public Schools and Colleges |
| Halfway houses, Community Theaters, Drug Rehabilitation Centers, Fraternal Organizations and Civic Clubs |
| Retirement Centers and Homes for the Elderly, Meals on Wheels, Church or Community-Sponsored Soup Kitchens or Food Pantries |
| Museums, Art Galleries, and Monuments |
| Community Choirs, Bands and Orchestras |
| Neighborhood Parks, Youth Organizations, Sports Teams, and after-school programs Shelters for Battered Women and Children |
| Historical Restorations, Battlefields and National Parks |
10. Give voice to your heart through your giving and volunteering!
Bring your heart and your sense of humor to your volunteer service, along with your enthusiastic spirit, which in itself is a priceless gift.
ALTRUISM PROGRAM
| ©2003 - 2012 Parnell Intermediary Services, Inc. All Rights Reserved. |
“If you want to be a loving person, don’t start by taking on the needs of the whole world. Start with caring about
one person and build from there. You can’t do everything, but you can do something. What you can do, you should
do.” –Haddon Robinson
one person and build from there. You can’t do everything, but you can do something. What you can do, you should
do.” –Haddon Robinson
| We appreciate support in all forms and are especially grateful for financial support from individuals like you! |
Parnell Intermediary Services, Inc.
501(c)(3) Nonprofit Public Charity