I began contributing my time during college to assist special-education students at a preschool. Since then, the projects I have chosen to get involved with are typically very local— and with reason. Community should always come first, and in my opinion, it doesn’t get more local or communal than the Downtown Long Beach Associates (DLBA).
For me, the spirit of volunteerism is not something that can be easily dismissed; it’s a part of our existence to help one another and improve life. In regard to DLBA, it is a fundamental aspect of how we function as an organization. In fact, I agree fully with Gio Ferarro, owner of Groundwork Fitness and a member of the DLBA’s Public Safety Committee, who said, “Volunteerism is not really a choice to me; it’s a responsibility.”
It is a responsibility that also deserves recognition.
This month, we have chosen to recognize the 60-plus volunteers who endlessly and tirelessly offer their wisdom, time and effort by serving on the DLBA Board and its various committees. The hours of discussion, thought-gathering, execution and sometimes even physical labor are not fruitless endeavors. In fact, they are an essential cog in the grander picture of creating a better Downtown.
Ryan Altoon, a DLBA director and chair of our Public Realm Committee, and volunteer himself, said, “Volunteering one’s personal and professional talents is the mechanism by which we can all contribute to the enhancement of the environment in which we work, play and live.”
There is, of course, a selfish standpoint to volunteering. It’s pleasing and enriching. I admit I get a deep sense of satisfaction when I see the results of contributing my time. When I drive by a school and see kids clad in uniforms, I know some of them came from the work I do at The Assistance League. I get to say, “I helped do that.”
It echoes what Gio told me: “It’s naturally what every small-business owner like myself should think about. I get to live my dream of owning my own gym, which runs because of my local community trusting me with their health and fitness. Therefore, how can I not return the favor by giving back and helping impact our health statistics in Downtown Long Beach? It’s a mutual respect between me and my community. We take care of each other. We’re all connected.”
The one drop of volunteering we contribute is deposited into a very large bucket— and although it might seem ineffective at the time, the drops add up. The drops help maintain that connection. We have the privilege of gathering the power and knowledge as residents, stakeholders and supporters of Downtown Long Beach. Our volunteerism gives perspective to business owners, to those invested, to others who love the Downtown.
Take, for example, Ryan’s immersion in development, planning and complex land-use issues; they have led the DLBA to coordinate strategies, programs and funding matrices to maximize value with the City and other funding partners. From projects like the Pine Avenue Streetscape plan, in construction today, to the Urban Land Institute Technical Assistance Panel study, the influence of Ryan’s knowledge of certain subject matter was exercised in a way that extended beyond his job. This is only one of many examples of others who have chosen to dedicate time and energy to the community where they have invested, committed themselves to and believe in.
This is the power of volunteerism.
For that, we thank everyone who has given us their time, expertise and effort as we salute you and offer our appreciation with utmost gratitude.
Have you volunteered lately?
