Volunteering Makes Community
by Judy Castleberry
There is a place in SouthWest Writers for the individual who sees a need and does something. Maybe it is someone who realizes we need a sign in front of the UNM Continuing Education building and faithfully sets it up every month. Maybe someone welcomes a new person. Maybe someone offers to judge a contest or be a zoom host.
For most people, volunteering is a way to be part of a community, and SouthWest Writers is only a community for writers when people get involved. I’ve found being part of a team of volunteers is both meaningful and fun. I’ve learned new skills, made new friends, and become a part of this community by volunteering. I have always gotten back more than I have given.
We need all kinds of volunteers. You can help by doing one thing: volunteering for an event such as Libros of Enchantment, speaking at a meeting, recommending a speaker, greeting a new person, judging a contest. Or you could help on the organizational level, by serving on a committee or the board. All of these are ways to get more involved and create the writing community you want.
Here are more ways to participate:
- Meeting and Workshop Zoom Hosts
- PR and Social Media Committee
- Newsletter and Website Help
- Professional Directory Updates
- SWW Office Support and Assistants
- Fundraising Committee
- Meeting Video Editing
- YouTube Assistants
- Author Interviewer
People who want to be professional writers benefit most by associating with other writers and getting involved with the activities common to the literary world. Make connections, increase your skills, and take advantage of opportunities to learn by doing!
If you’re interested in volunteering, talk to someone at a meeting or send an email to info@swwriters.com.