Meet Amber Starks

What was your experience with volunteering prior to Hands On Greater Portland?

I've always loved volunteering, so whenever I'd hear about an event that needed volunteers, I'd jump at the opportunity. Volunteering was, however, sporadic because there was always something else going on and finding the time or having something that was flexible for me yet helpful for an organization was always the challenge. I always like to be apart of something that benefit not only me, but the organization I'm working with.

How did you get involved with Hands On Greater Portland?

I got involved with Hands On Greater Portland because I was out of a job for while and I needed to get out and do something meaningful to me. I went online one day because I knew I could find some way to help (and get out of my apt to keep my sanity). I typed in "volunteering in portland, oregon" and came across Hands On Greater Portland and some other sites. I really liked how organized Hands On Greater Portland's site was and it was easy to navigate through. I really thought the "Project Calendar" was great because I was able to see what was going on around town, which projects needed volunteers, and what the project consisted of. I was able to add myself to the project of my interest right then. I immediately registered and I think I was doing a project the next day. It is so easy to get involved through Hands On Greater Portland and from that moment on, I've been volunteering at different events.

How has your experience changed you?

Being apart of Hands On Greater Portland has been so good for me. It gives me a chance to see what Portland offers in the form of resources to our community. It is so wonderful to see how many people are out to do something for others with a willing heart. There are so many different way to give yourself through Hands On Greater Portland and I am finding myself branching out, being apart of project I would have never done outside of Hands On Greater Portland. Whether volunteering or leading a group of volunteers, there's always a since of being apart of something larger, something that in the long run benefits Portland and makes it a healthier and stronger place. We are out meeting the needs of our community and at the same time doing something healthy for our own souls. I'm glad to be apart of it all.

What’s your favorite cause?

My favorite cause so far has to be the Clark Center which is a transitional house for men. The project involves cooking and serving dinner for the residents. I like this project because you are not only in charge of cooking and serving the meal, you have to come up with the menu. The first time I did it I thought, "I hope they like it." We rummaged through the pantry, the frig and the freezer to try and pull something edible together as a team. There where so many choices, we could have cooked anything which made it a little overwhelming. We decided to find something that feeds lots of people. Spaghetti, it was. At the end of the meal I think we were given a standing ovation and I remember laughing because I'm sure we all thought, "No way was it that good, it was just spaghetti." But it was such fun because all of us volunteers had to work together and we had the opportunity to be as creative as we liked. I know most people would say that spaghetti's not creative, but it was that night, (LOL) along with pumpkin cake for dessert.

What motivated you to become a Volunteer Leader?

I was asked to be a Volunteer Leader for the Comcast Hands On Greater Portland Cares Day and since I'd decided that I really loved being apart of Hands On Greater Portland, becoming a Volunteer Leader was an easy transition. I was already committed to Hands On Greater Portland when asked to be a leader so leading projects was naturally the next step!! I love encouraging others and in the Volunteer Leader position I get a chance to do it a lot. Not only that, I get a chance to meet a lot of people and hear about what motivates them to come out and help. And in the end, I get to thank them and hopefully help to inspire them to come back and help some more.

Do you have a favorite observation made by a volunteer during reflection?

I can't recall a specific observation, but I remember when volunteers say things like, "I didn't even know this place existed," speaking of the organization they've come to help out with. Or they will say, "I'm so glad I came today." It's those moments of knowing that there are resources in our community and that we all can be apart of it, I think leaves me and the volunteers hopeful and encouraged to come back again and again. And I'm so greatful that I get to be apart of it!!!

Learn more about how to become a Volunteer Leader!