When asked what compels Jericho Road Pasadena volunteer Brian Biery to lend his time, talent and expertise to non-profit endeavors—rather than packing boxes or writing a donation check—he acknowledged that each offers value to a nonprofit and to those they serve.
But through his engagement with JRP and the organizations supported by our volunteers, Brian has also honed in on a core requirement: “Nonprofits need people; lots of people, to accomplish their missions. Obviously, staff are critical, but other community members are critical, particularly to serve as board members, donors, and volunteers.”
Brian described his most recent volunteer experience—with Miracle League Los Angeles—as “fascinating” due to the mission of the organization. The first of its kind in the Los Angeles area, the Miracle League organization is a full 501c3 dedicated to providing a life changing experience for children with special needs. It allows kids to play baseball on a field built specifically for them. “To be able to assist them to achieve their goals was certainly rewarding, particularly because I have a family member who benefitted greatly from programs for persons with disabilities.”
Another significant project for Brian was to guide a strategic planning process for Jericho Road Pasadena. The outcome document from that effort has contributed to the growth and development of the organization since its creation several years ago.
To most effectively serve as a volunteer, Brian suggests prospective volunteers take an inventory of their skills and interests.
- Identify what your skills are; conduct a personal inventory of your abilities
- Clarify which ones you want to share with the rest of the world
- Develop a system for passing on those skills and knowledge to the client so that you’re ready for each assignment
He also suggested that volunteers develope templates for each service such as board development, board retreat facilitation, strategic planning, or volunteer management to move quickly from the initial interview with the client to directly taking action.
“Nonprofits need people; lots of people in order to accomplish their missions. Obviously, staff are critical, but other community members are critical, particularly to serve as board members, donors, and volunteers. Successful nonprofits know how to weave profound relationships so that there is trust, compassion and unity around the mission.”
To learn more about Brian and his work, please visit his websites
- https://www.brianbiery.com
- https://powerofone.brianbiery.com
- https://brianbieryphotography.pixieset.com
Learn more about Jericho Road Pasadena’s skilled volunteer opportunities and discover how your professional experience can help local nonprofits thrive.