When Dan Snipes moved to Charlotte five years ago from Denver, Colorado, he wanted to find out what the locals here do for fun. He came across an article about Hands On Charlotte and decided he’d better see what we were all about. After trying out half-dozen projects, Dan stumbled upon the Wednesday night Cradles to Crayons project and was hooked!
According to Dan, the children at The Summit House who attend this project don't have a very typical home life. While they are very fortunate to have a community to help raise them, Dan worries that they don’t always get the special attention kids need. Volunteers at Cradles to Crayons provide that special attention and lots of love.
“The kids need to know they are important. I think we do a fairly good job of spoiling them. This is evidenced by the rush to the door and the incredible hugs we get when we arrive,” Dan said.
Dan said he likes that there are so may ways to get involved and make a difference in the community: planting gardens, cleaning school grounds, helping at homeless shelters, sorting clothing and food, assisting those with special needs… the list goes on and on.
So what’s Dan’s best advice for Hands On Charlotte volunteers?
“Try a bunch of different activities to see what brings you the most joy. Return to that project often, but keep trying out new ones too,” Dan said.
“Throw yourself into it and allow yourself to be creative. While volunteering, be sure to live in the moment and enjoy the company of those around you. There are so many good people in your community, from all walks of life. You'll be amazed by who you meet.”
--Sarah Langford
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