#VolunteeringRocks – Dave Mooney, Salesforce Dublin

‘Giving back’, ‘paying it forward’, ‘selfless good deeds’ and ‘the feel good factor’ – all phrases I’ve heard countless times and since joining Salesforce less than a year ago. Now I use them to talk about the volunteering events my team and I have taken part in.

I’ve had the opportunity to volunteer with some great causes over the last number of months, not only in Dublin but also out in San Francisco. From caring for animals at the DSPCA (Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) to cooking and serving food to the families of children with chronic illnesses at Ronald McDonald House, and everything in between, like packing and redistributing food at the SF-Marin Food Bank and cleaning and redesigning computers at Camara who ship them to schools and centers in underprivileged countries, so that children can access educational resources.

Each of these activities has taught me something new and also given me an eye-opening insight into the tremendous challenges these charitable organizations face in terms of sponsorship, volunteers, exposure and sustainability. Hopefully we’ve helped a little, even if it’s just lending a hand to pack a bag or holding the lead while walking an adorable brown-eyed Labrador.

The main thing I’ve learned in this short space of time is that each one of these organizations is just as important as the other – our time, the public’s donations and even the awareness generated, is hugely important for all them.

The 1-1-1 Model is one of the main reasons I love working at Salesforce. It opens the door for us to make a difference, no matter how big or small, and in as many different organizations that we can reach.

Lewis Carroll once said; “One of the deep secrets in life is that all that is really worth doing is what we do for others.”

Dave Mooney is a Value Consultant Salesforce in Dublin, Ireland

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