By Brenda W Hargroves
The impact of these words is so powerful, this statement has become my mantra! And for the past 25 years, I’ve strived to live up to its sentiment.
It’s true that someone you know might one day become a resource. But when you help someone else, you get the added benefit of feeling good. I don’t know what’s in your wallet, but I’m always in favor of two- for-one.
Who I’ve Helped – My interest and belief in helping others grew after my husband suddenly died. A lifelong learner, he earned a bachelor’s degree at age 47. His commitment to education inspired my decision to financially support and mentor students. I started a nonprofit organization that assisted over 75 young men and women in their effort to secure a college degree or skill certification. Many of these students have gone on to do great things.
Founding a nonprofit led to my learning how to write effective grant proposals. I later wrote pro bono proposals for small nonprofits and raised thousands of dollars to support their causes. Even now, I’ve been known to write an occasional proposal at no charge if a program or project tugs at my heart.
But enough about my good deeds. Let’s talk about how helping helps the helper!
Who I Know – Word of mouth recommendations from my pro bono proposal writing led to an abundance of paying opportunities and a skill that continues to serve as a source of retirement income. In addition, because of relationships I built within the nonprofit world, I now have a partner in crime. We talk every week, often several times a week, mentoring each other, helping in areas where one of us has more experience and just plain sharing invaluable conversation.
I’ve kept in touch with several of the students my nonprofit mentored. One young lady, in particular, stands out as an example of the value of helping others. When we met for lunch this past summer, she reminded me of how grateful she was for her scholarship, as it was the only financial assistance she received while in college. I had completely forgotten about that. It turns out that this young lady now owns a business that offers services I desperately need. The twist of fate is that she is now helping me!
Therefore, I repeat, it’s not who you know, it’s who you help. Your efforts will come back to serve you in ways you might never think of.
So, I ask – Who have you helped? And what are some of the ways you’ve benefited as a result of your efforts?
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