Volunteer Experience
Giving back to my community has always been important to me, and my volunteer experiences have shaped my understanding of service, compassion, and advocacy—values that are essential in nursing. Throughout my time at West Virginia Wesleyan College, I have been involved in several volunteer initiatives that have strengthened my commitment to helping others and reinforced my passion for healthcare and community outreach.
​Each of these experiences has played a vital role in shaping my personal and professional growth. Volunteering has allowed me to develop empathy, leadership skills, and a deeper understanding of the challenges that many individuals face, particularly those in vulnerable populations. As I move forward in my nursing career, I am committed to continuing this spirit of service—whether through bedside care, patient advocacy, or community health initiatives.
Food Bank Volunteer – Southern West Virginia
Around the holidays, I had the opportunity to volunteer at a food bank in Southern West Virginia, assisting with organizing and distributing food to families in need. I helped sort donations, plate meals, and load food into vehicles for distribution. This experience was incredibly rewarding, as I saw firsthand the impact of food insecurity and the importance of ensuring that families have access to nutritious meals. Volunteering at the food bank deepened my understanding of social determinants of health and reinforced the role that nurses can play in addressing disparities within underserved communities.
Suicide Prevention Walk – WE LEAD Invisible Illness Team
As a member of the WE LEAD Invisible Illness Team, I helped organize and facilitate our campus-wide Suicide Prevention Walk, an event that brought together students, faculty, and community members to raise awareness for mental health and suicide prevention. While I spent most of my time coordinating logistics, I found it incredibly meaningful to witness the community come together to support such an important cause. The event included a guest speaker, a walk through campus, and interactive workshops such as Narcan training and self-care bag creation. Seeing the event’s impact on those who attended solidified my passion for mental health advocacy and reaffirmed my belief that holistic care in nursing must include emotional and psychological well-being.
Community Health & Hospice Volunteering
During my hospice and public health clinicals, I participated in various community-based volunteer activities. At Mt. Hospice Bellington, I assisted patients with their morning routines, helped serve meals, and engaged in a craft activity where we made decorative squirrels for their rooms. This experience was a reminder of how even small gestures can bring joy and comfort to patients. Additionally, my time at the Randolph County Health Department introduced me to the broader scope of public health work, as I observed community health initiatives and the impact of preventative care services.