April is a dedicated time to honor the amazing impact made by volunteers in nonprofit organizations across the country. Here at HOME WORKS!, volunteers are vital to helping our school-based family events run smoothly so teachers can focus on building trusting relationships with students’ families. In recognition of the many contributions of volunteers, we are celebrating with a spotlight of HOME WORKS! volunteer, Gabriyel Israel. Read on to learn about how Gabriyel has been inspired to join the Family Engagement movement!
What motivates you to volunteer?
I grew up in a family and neighborhood in North St. Louis that believes in helping others. My Mother has been working at Urban League for 30 years and my first job was helping her in the Urban League summer program. I’ve always taken action to keep the neighborhood clean, pick up trash and cut grass. It has never been about the money for me but doing something from the heart for the community. Volunteering is a behind the scenes job without pressure so it’s easy to be yourself and genuinely be of service to others.
What drew you to the HOME WORKS! mission?
Honestly it must have been a God thing. When I did the volunteer search, HOME WORKS! mission and vision really did stand out as being important and unique…giving students and families the tools they need to succeed in education and life. The HOME WORKS! events also fit my time availability which are late afternoon and early evening.
What have you enjoyed the most about volunteering at HOME WORKS!?
The appreciation and gratitude from the HW! staff. Also, knowing my kind words and actions make a difference to the families, students and teachers in the community. Volunteering gives me an opportunity to serve with an open heart, take pride in what I do and inspire others to do the same.
What would you say to someone thinking of becoming a HOME WORKS! volunteer?
Be you, be genuine and whatever you do… do it with love and compassion. Volunteer with a passion because making a difference starts with the heart of giving #charity!
Gabriyel Israel is an entrepreneur, he has his own car detailing business, called Shyen Bryght Shyen, LLC. He also works at Amazon as a driver. His goal is to start a nonprofit in North St. Louis that trains young adults, giving them a skill set for job opportunities. Gabriyel has worked for Operation Brightside and Urban League of Greater St. Louis. He has a natural gift for giving from the heart.
Are you interested in becoming a HOME WORKS! volunteer? Email sloftin@teacherhomevisit.org for more information.