Where It All Started
I grew up in a family that believed in helping others. My parents didn’t just talk about giving back—they lived it. My dad worked in stockbroking, my mom was a teacher, and together they built and ran a childcare center that served hundreds of families in our community for over thirty years. They didn’t just see it as a business; they saw it as a way to give parents peace of mind and kids a safe, loving place to grow.
On top of that, they always found time to do more. I remember being a kid and helping load up boxes of food, school supplies, and gifts for families who needed a hand around the holidays. They worked with local food pantries in St. Louis, dropping off donations and making sure no one was forgotten. At the time, I probably didn’t realize how much those moments would shape me, but now I see they were teaching me something important—that community isn’t just where you live, it’s what you build.
Learning the Value of Service
When you grow up watching people who give so much of themselves, it sticks with you. My parents never made a big deal about it. They didn’t post about it or look for recognition. They just did what needed to be done. That’s probably why giving back feels natural to me now.
I’ve carried that same mindset into my own life. Over the years, I’ve tried to find ways to contribute that feel meaningful to me. Volunteering at Second Chance Ranch for older dogs was one of those experiences that really hit home. I’ve always loved animals, and helping dogs that had been abandoned or mistreated showed me a different kind of compassion. You realize pretty quickly that giving your time is just as valuable as giving your money. Sometimes, people—or animals—just need someone to show up and care.
Why It Still Matters Today
Working in the auto industry, my days are busy and physical. I spend a lot of time detailing cars, keeping things organized, and helping the dealership run smoothly. It’s satisfying work, but I’ve learned that no matter how much you put into your job, you need something more.
Giving back gives me that “something more.” It reminds me that what we do outside of work matters just as much as what we do on the clock. Life can get overwhelming, and it’s easy to focus on your own needs, your own bills, your own schedule. But when you stop for a moment and look around, you see that there are always people—and animals—who could use a little help.
For me, helping others isn’t just about charity; it’s about connection. It’s about making the place you live a little better than you found it. Whether it’s donating to the ASPCA, helping out at a food drive, or just lending a hand to a neighbor, those small acts add up.
Lessons I Want My Kids to Learn
Now that I’m a dad, I think a lot about the kind of example I’m setting. I want my kids to grow up with the same understanding of community that my parents gave me. When I take them along to drop off donations or help out with something local, I can see how curious and proud they are. They start asking questions—who the food is for, why we’re helping—and that’s when I get to explain that not everyone has it easy, and that we can make a difference, even in small ways.
I don’t expect them to volunteer every weekend or anything like that. I just want them to grow up knowing that kindness matters, and that being part of a community means taking care of one another. Whether it’s sharing what you have, giving your time, or just checking in on someone, it all counts.
The Real Reward
I think a lot of people assume that giving back is about feeling good about yourself—and sure, it does feel good—but that’s not really the point. The real reward comes from seeing the difference you can make. I’ve seen the look on a parent’s face when they get supplies for their kids. I’ve seen a shy dog wag its tail again after months of fear. Those moments hit you right in the heart. They remind you that life isn’t just about getting ahead; it’s about lifting others up when you can.
It’s also humbling. You realize how much we all depend on each other. No one gets through life alone. When someone’s struggling, they remember who helped them. And when you’re the one in need, you remember who showed up for you. That’s how real communities are built—not through big speeches or fancy donations, but through everyday people caring enough to act.
Keeping the Spirit Alive
Even when life gets busy, I try to make time for giving back. It doesn’t have to be a huge effort. Sometimes it’s as simple as buying extra groceries to donate, or making sure an elderly neighbor’s driveway gets cleared after a snowstorm. Those small things may not seem like much, but they add up.
If everyone did one small thing to help someone else, imagine how much better off we’d all be. That’s something I think about a lot, especially when the world feels divided or chaotic. Helping others reminds me that there’s still good out there—and that we all have the power to add to it.
Community has always been a part of who I am. From watching my parents build a childcare center that cared for hundreds of families to volunteering with animals and supporting local causes, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it can be when people give their time and hearts to something bigger than themselves.
At the end of the day, work is important, but so is giving back. It grounds you, it connects you, and it reminds you of what truly matters. Because when you help others, you’re not just making their world better—you’re making your own life richer, too.