Page 86 - Senior Link Magazine Summer 2018- Online Magazine

HONORING J.T. & MARGARET

T ALKINGT ON

The Volunteer Center:

Looking Ahead with

Purpose

BY SHARON BASS

Everything we do at The Volunteer Center of Lubbock involves
people. We connect volunteers with community needs and
provide assistance to area nonprofit organizations. With 160+
community partners, we strive to foster a culture of service on
the South Plains and develop the next generation of leaders.
We believe that a truly engaged community has the potential to
transform the world. In 2017, the Volunteer Center of Lubbock
provided services to over 40,000 people on the South Plains.
What is phenomenal about the Talkington Foundation is their
willingness to support more than just new projects on the South
Plains. It is their recognition of the need for revitalization and
expansion of existing non-profits. Easing the never-ending
stress on an established organization is just as vital to the
welfare of our community as breathing life into a new one. And
sometimes, that relief for one group opens the door to limitless
possibilities for the whole community.
The Talkington Foundation funds have allowed the Volunteer
Center to increase our capacity to fulfill our mission. The list is
long, but here are a few examples:
We developed clearer messaging about why we are here and
what we do. A series of videos on our website tells stories
of real people who are acting with purpose and making our
community stronger in the process. More people are clearer
about the resources we offer as a result.
More staffing time has been given to telling our story
and connecting with partners – businesses, agencies, and
individuals. People of all ages have more choices of ways to
serve and create impact.
We upgraded our technology so that we could better pursue
our mission.
Additional phone lines and a new system have reduced
repair costs and opened communication with partners and
clients.
New computers have enabled us to produce in-house
marketing materials and step up social media.
A new database system is more user-friendly. We can more
easily track donors, members and community partners – all
of which enables us to work at a higher level.
While seemingly a small change, we no longer lose valuable
time just waiting for our technology to perform.
The operational capacity we have built with Talkington
funds has enabled us to reach more people. As we help them
discover their best volunteer fit and leadership potential,
we see evidence that purposeful service does transform the
world.

Mission accomplished!

86 Lubbock Senior Link