In order to most effectively serve our broad, diverse T1D community, JDRF depends on hundreds of dedicated volunteers — individuals who generously contribute their unique talents and passions to the endless fight to cure, treat, and prevent T1D. We are constantly amazed by their incredible devotion and energy.  Their efforts allow JDRF to continue to provide support, raise funds, and advocate for critical funding. Our volunteers change lives every single day and we join other nonprofits this month as we honor their outstanding dedication.

National Volunteer Week (April 15-21, 2018) offers a chance to celebrate the unsung heroes of our organization.  With only four staff members covering 36 counties, our Chapter’s success relies on our strong volunteer partners. One of our most vital volunteer groups is the Board of Directors, who are involved in chapter stewardship and overseeing mission fulfillment. Members adopt prominent roles from the moment they join the Board, contributing their expertise and leadership to every aspect of JDRF’s operation. In a similar manner, our event committees offer valuable guidance in planning our fundraisers such as the JDRF One Walk, Gala and Crab Feed.

Outreach volunteers play an essential role working directly with newly diagnosed T1D’s and their families to offer advice and emotional support. These volunteers establish early connections in order to ease the difficulty and chaos of a new diagnosis, and their work truly touches lives on a daily basis. These same volunteers also help promote JDRF, informing local communities of our work and resources.

Outside of chapter stewardship, fundraising and outreach, several volunteers assist us with general office projects on a weekly basis, while others design their own unique fundraisers to support JDRF.  JDRF also partners with local volunteer groups, including the National Charity League and Boys Team Charity who provide invaluable support at events and assist with large scale projects.

We are eternally grateful for our extraordinary community of volunteers we have here at JDRF and we appreciate their continued support and partnership!

Written by: Lorena Bergstrom