Giving back

Since graduating college, I don't give back enough to my community. One thing I wanted to do this year was get involved with a few organizations and donate my time. Since I don't make the big bucks yet, I can't really give financially like I would want but I can donate my time and other skills.

Instead of just talking about it, I decided to do something and volunteer for the annual Race for the Place that supports the Gathering Place. It's a local nonprofit organization that provides all types of support to people living with cancer and their families. Although I've never taken advantage of their programs, many people have and cherish their time with the Gathering Place.

At the race, the most important part for me was hearing everyone's stories about why they were involved, how many years they had participated and why it was important to them to support this cause. I can see myself volunteering for this race every year because I really enjoyed everyone I met along the way.

Last Sunday, my friends and parents were up early at Beachwood mall to walk the one mile course. Since I ran the Cleveland 10K, I really wanted to run the 5K but ultimately decided it probably meant more to my parents to walk with them.


People gathered before the race






Friends supporting the race



Celebrating our cancer survivor