In February 2012, Donna met with Jessica to learn about Dolls for Daughters®. In that one meeting, Donna offered to write for Dolls for Daughters®. As a writer and editor, it was a natural way to support DfD. Once again, it’s amazing to see where the power of conversation and the spark of open-heartedness can take us.

1.    Why did you decide to volunteer with Dolls for Daughters®?

I initially met with Jessica back in February of this year to learn more about her and Dolls for Daughters®. We also discussed the book she is writing about her experience of being pregnant and then losing Kenzi. As Jessica shared her story of transformation, I was so moved that I couldn’t help but want to find a way to be connected with her and DfD. Jessica’s inspiration, her desire to help others, and her ability to transform her pain and grief are contagious. She reminds us that every single one of us can make a difference. We don’t have to start a nonprofit as Jessica has done, but we can volunteer or simply touch another person by smiling or lending a helping hand.

2.    How long have you been a volunteer with Dolls for Daughters®?

It began in March of this year.

3.    What is your most memorable experience volunteering with Dolls for Daughters® and which event was it at?

I have not yet attended an event. Since my work is more behind the scenes (the newsletter and some of DfD’s blogs), I would say what has been most memorable so far is learning about some of the other volunteers—about how and why they got involved and what they’re doing. I’ve been amazed at the busy women who still find time to give, along with 11-year-old Bryn who is an inspiration for young and old alike.

4.    Have you participated in any fundraising event that Dolls for Daughters® had held?

Not yet.

5.    Have you shared your volunteer experience with your friends and family? If so, what was their reaction?

I have shared with some of my friends that I am volunteering my time. When I’ve shared Jessica’s story, I’ve brought some of them to tears. It’s stories like Jessica’s that help us all open our hearts a little wider!

6.    If you did share your experience, have any of your friends or family become Dolls for Daughters® volunteers because of it?

Not yet. 

7.        With so many organizations in need of volunteers, what suggestions or advice do you have for people who consider volunteering, especially when it comes to choosing where to offer their help?

I would tell people to volunteer with organizations that touch their hearts. Because there are so many, even using that criterion can be a challenge, because if you have a big heart, you want to help them all. So, the second piece of encouragement is to choose maybe one or two to focus on and give your “all” to them. Rather than spread yourself thin, and do a little here and there, by focusing on one or two at most, you can show up in a bigger way and have a greater impact. Above all else, remember that every single one of us does truly make a difference whether we devote an hour a month, a week, or a day. If everyone gave even one hour a year, imagine what could be possible for our world!