When I was asked to serve on some local not-for-profit Boards, my initial reaction was "I'm too busy". But after reflection and some consideration, I was compelled to serve. It's been a great way for me to take the focus off myself and to pour some energy into helping others..for me, it has certainly given me a renewed perspective and attitude for how blessed I am with a fairly "normal" life compared to so many in need.

In a previous blog I mentioned the Every Neighborhood Partnership (everyneighborhood.org), which is a program where contiguously located schools and churches partner to help underserved children.

Another awesome program is the United Way of Fresno County. A group under their umbrella is the "Women's Initiative" where local women executives and leaders have gathered to adopt the "Spirit of Woman" program near Roeding Park. This program helps women and their children who have been victims of substance abuse and are desiring a renewed life, re-entry into productive lives, and to break the cycle of negative influence.

I serve as co-chair for a program called "WINGS"-Women In the Next Generation, a subset of the Women's Initiative, where young women (high school, college, and early careerists) can volunteer at the Spirit of Woman to help with the children in a variety of ways and help the moms with numerous things like studying for their GED...there's even an opportunity for those skilled in music to intertwine that into the volunteering experience.

If you know of young women that may be interested, there is a kick-off session on Saturday November 21st at 9AM...have them contact me at wholderman@fresnoheartandsurgical.org for more details.

Blessings to you and I hope you can find the time to volunteer and make a difference in the lives of those in need!