Making a Difference, Right Here: The Power of Volunteering

Volunteering. It's a word that resonates with the desire to give back, to connect with our community, and to make a tangible difference. It's a powerful force for positive change, enriching lives both for those who receive help and those who offer it. But sometimes, knowing where to start can be the biggest hurdle. That's where organizations like LINC NW step in, offering a bridge between those who want to help and those who need it most, right here in our community.

In a world that often feels fast-paced and disconnected, volunteering offers a chance to slow down, connect with our neighbors, and contribute to something larger than ourselves. It's an opportunity to invest in our community's well-being and experience the profound rewards of making a difference.

The Ripple Effect of Volunteering:

The benefits of volunteering are far-reaching, impacting both individuals and the community as a whole. Volunteers are the lifeblood of countless organizations, providing essential support and driving positive change. They help:

  • Strengthen communities: Volunteering fosters a sense of belonging and connection, building stronger, more resilient communities.

  • Address critical needs: Volunteers play a crucial role in meeting the needs of vulnerable populations, from food insecurity to educational support.

  • Promote social justice: By volunteering, we can contribute to creating a more equitable and just society.

The Personal Rewards of Giving Back:

While the impact on the community is significant, volunteering also offers incredible personal benefits. Giving back can lead to:

  • Increased sense of purpose: Knowing you're making a difference can provide a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment.

  • Improved mental and physical well-being: Volunteering has been linked to reduced stress, improved mood, and even better physical health.

  • Skill development and new experiences: Volunteering provides opportunities to learn new skills, explore different fields, and broaden your horizons.

  • Stronger social connections: Volunteering connects you with like-minded individuals and expands your social network.

LINC NW and Your Pathway to Local Impact:

LINC NW understands the vital role of volunteers in building a thriving community. We offer a variety of volunteer opportunities, connecting individuals with meaningful ways to contribute their time and talents. Whether you're passionate about supporting families, promoting education, or contributing to community development, LINC NW has a place for you. Some examples of volunteer opportunities you might find with LINC NW include:

  • Mentoring: Providing guidance and support to individuals seeking to achieve their goals.

  • Community outreach: Engaging with the community to raise awareness about LINC NW's programs and services.

  • Event support: Assisting with fundraising events, workshops, or other community gatherings.

  • Donation support: Providing valuable assistance with sorting and stocking valuable donations at our community closet and thrift store location.

Finding Your Fit with LINC NW:

LINC NW makes it easy to find volunteer opportunities that align with your interests, skills, and availability. Visit our Volunteer Application or contact amanda@lincnw.org to learn more about current openings and how you can get involved. We will help you find the perfect opportunity to make a difference in our community.

Take the Next Step:

Volunteering is an investment in our community and in ourselves. By partnering with organizations like LINC NW, we can create a stronger, more vibrant community for everyone. Take the first step today. Explore the possibilities. Discover the joy of giving back. You might be surprised at the difference you can make – not just in the lives of others but in your own as well. Visit the LINC NW website to learn more about volunteer opportunities and how you can get involved. Your community needs you!

A Community That Grows Together

LINC NW is working toward a full-functioning community garden this year. LINC's vision is to create a community garden that supplies community members with fresh vegetables as well as a small crop to local food banks. Distribution of the fresh veggies grown here will start by being stocked into a small food pantry now located inside LINC NW. This pantry was donated alongside the garden supplies and will allow us to give fresh vegetables and non-perishables for free.

Our garden layout goal is to surround the gardens with pollinating plants and then grow vegetables in the main garden boxes. We have built eight new garden boxes this winter. We are also hoping to move a couple of the garden beds we currently have to the preschool so the students can experiment with gardening.

Bill Hogland will be the project lead for the community garden. To help us with this exciting project, we are looking to gather a team of volunteers who will help maintain the gardens. We have all the materials, and the assembly is being completed by the LINC NW team and Volunteers of America. We now just need volunteers to maintain the beds as well as the seeds/vegetable starts. If you would like to help with either of these needs, please contact Kim at 425-312-3474 or kim@lincnw.org.

We also want to give a special thanks to Volunteers of America for the donation of all materials for the community garden and the fresh food pantry.

A New Partner in the LINC NW Corner!

We are very excited to announce that LINC NW has taken ownership of the Silvana Five and Dime at 1401 Pioneer Highway in Silvana, WA!

This exciting transition marks a new chapter for the beloved local institution and promises continued support and enhancement of its vital role within the community.

For years, the Silvana Five and Dime has been more than just a thrift store; it's been a community hub, a place where neighbors connect, find affordable treasures, and contribute to a sustainable cycle of reuse. Sherwood Community Services has nurtured and grown the store into the valuable asset it is today, and LINC NW is committed to building upon that strong foundation.

So, what does this mean for the future of the Silvana Five and Dime? LINC NW is dedicated to preserving the store's unique charm and community-centric spirit. They plan to continue offering the same great selection of gently used clothing, household goods, and other treasures that shoppers have come to rely on. Furthermore, LINC NW aims to explore opportunities to expand the store's offerings and further integrate it into their existing programs and services.

This acquisition aligns perfectly with LINC NW's mission to empower individuals and strengthen communities. The thrift store will serve as a valuable resource, providing affordable goods for families and individuals in need. It will also create opportunities for volunteerism and community service, further contributing to the economic and social well-being of the Silvana area.

The transition is expected to be seamless, with minimum to no disruption to store hours or operations. LINC NW encourages community members to continue supporting the Silvana Five and Dime through donations and shopping. Your contributions directly support LINC NW's programs and services, making a positive impact on the lives of your neighbors.

Stay tuned for further updates and announcements regarding the Silvana Five and Dime Thrift Store. LINC NW is excited to embark on this new journey and looks forward to serving the Silvana community for many years to come.

How You Can Help:

  • Donate: Clean out your closets and donate gently used items to the store.

  • Shop: Discover hidden gems and affordable treasures while supporting a great cause.

  • Volunteer: Become part of the Silvana Five and Dime team and contribute your time and talents.

Learn More About LINC NW:

www.lincnw.org

Visit the Silvana Five and Dime:

1401 Pioneer Hwy, Stanwood, WA 98292

Monday and Tuesday: Closed

Wednesday- Saturday: 10:30 am-4:30 pm

Sunday: 11:00 am- 4:00 pm