NYRR Staff Give Back to Their Communities Through Volunteer Work
Whether it’s encouraging kids with special needs to have fun running or delivering food to local shelters, New York Road Runners staff members are taking the time to give back to their communities. Find out why volunteering is so rewarding to them as they share their own experiences and offer words of encouragement and advice to others who want to give back.
Courtney Lyons, Run for the Future Program Specialist
Courtney Lyons is a troop leader for the Girl Scouts in Brooklyn for scouts in the 4th and 5th grade. She’s been volunteering at her troop for eight years, since a friend started the troop at Courtney’s church (which she’s attended since childhood) and asked her to be co-leader.
“I was trying to find ways to give back to both my church and community because they created so many lasting memories for me growing up,” Courtney said. “This was my way of helping build self-esteem and confidence in young girls. I see myself in a lot of them and wanted to share my knowledge, and of course have fun.”
She said that the most rewarding thing about volunteering is knowing that you’re a part of something much bigger than yourself. Also, the fact that your presence can make a difference in someone else’s day or can inspire them to also volunteer is fulfilling.
“Many of my girls started in Girl Scouts when they were five years old. Seeing them grow and become the amazing young ladies they are today is worth every hour I spend volunteering.”
When asked what she would say to someone who is thinking about volunteering she said to start with your local community, maybe an organization that you’ve participated in and want to give back to.
“Follow what you’re passionate about and find organizations where you can share that passion. Whether it’s art, caring for the elderly, sports, or cooking, use what brings you joy and bring it to your community,” she said.
She shared one of her favorite quotes from Martin Luther King, Jr.: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, what are you doing for others?”
Wesley Davis, Director of the Striders Program
Wesley Davis volunteers at Fast Feet NYC, a nonprofit running program currently serving over 500 children with special needs in Williamsburg, the Bronx, East Harlem, and Westchester. He started volunteering in 2019 as a race buddy being paired with a new child at each event and running short distances up to 5K.
“The kids are always excited to come out and run the races. Some of them are really fast, and it is great to celebrate with them when they PR,” Wesley said.
During the pandemic, when in-person events shut down, Wesley volunteered at their fundraising event and a Black Lives Matter running series to promote the event and raise money.
“[Volunteering] gives back to a community that needs these programs, and it’s fun to see the children and their families enjoying themselves. Running is for everyone. That’s why I love it,” he said.
Wesley found out about Fast Feet NYC through its Founder and Executive Director Suzie Clinchy.
“[She] used to work at NYRR and we became friends. I jumped at the opportunity help out and volunteer,” he said.
Donna Finney, Volunteer Operations Lead
Donna Finney volunteers at New York Cares, the largest volunteer network in New York City offering numerous volunteer opportunities with nonprofits and schools in all five boroughs.
“I love that you can try out new projects and organizations. This month I am volunteering at six different organizations. I’m helping rescue food waste to deliver to local shelters, I will help in a food pantry, then another day I’m joining students in Washington Heights to help them get fit.” Donna said. “The one I’m really looking forward to is dancing and taking a stroll to keep senior citizens company.”
She began volunteering in 2006 after moving to the U.S. from England. Initially in immigration limbo and not able to work, she wanted to get involved, keep busy, and meet new friends, so she started volunteering at a children’s museum, and then the Red Cross and United Service Organizations (USO).
“I know I can give my time to help and that motivates me every day to be a better person and keep my eyes open for opportunities to be kind to everyone,” Donna said. “But the [most] rewarding part is the incredible people I have met, it gives me faith in the good in people and that volunteers make such a deep and meaningful impact.”
When asked what she would say to someone who is thinking about volunteering she said to find a cause that speaks to you.
“Mine is fighting hunger—there are so many people out there today that are hungry and need help. Maybe [yours is] helping young men and women build their confidence, or maybe you are an animal lover, or you want to help a community learn a new language. Whatever speaks to your soul, go roll up your sleeves because they need you!”