Grassroots.org

After returning from a pretty intense Pre-Service Orientation (PSO) in preparation for my year of Americorps VISTA service, I am glad to say that I had really interesting conversations with most everyone. Usually, introductions at these events can be brief or too formal. But it was a relief to hear personal stories from everyone in Boston; I even had a chance to meet Laura, my fellow VISTA for the year! While at the orientation, I realized what interesting and diverse backgrounds we all come from, and how different our motivations to join non-profits were. So even though I have already introduced myself so many times in the past week, I shall do this one last time!

I always find that introductions sometimes takes a bit of self-reflection. As someone with a science background growing up, I never knew that I would become interested in non-profit work. But there were little hints looking back on my life that clued me in on what I was supposed to be doing. I was always reading or writing and enjoyed words and the arts much more than those in more technical fields. Becoming an English major was a huge risk but involved re-visiting my goals. My interest in web publishing came after I realized I could use the many hours I use reading Wikipedia and blogging in a more practical way. More often than not, you realize that much of what you have been doing all along is more applicable than what you are doing now! Who knew being a Googlemeister or an advocate for mental health would help me realize how much I love technology and non-profit work.

So as I begin my year-long relationship with Grassroots.org and my fellow VISTAs, I encourage a re-evaluation of your goals. It helps shift your focus if you need to, or renew old objectives. Whether you are considering how to create your organization's mission or thinking of how to maximize your capacity with our web tools, don't forget the things that have defined your purpose all along; you may have more ideas and options than you think!