The Volunteer Spirit

Notoriously nicknamed “The Volunteer State,” Tennessee and its citizens tangibly embody and textually represent the American spirit that has helped founded, lifted, and shaped this great nation—a spirit of volunteerism, a spirit of seeing others needs ahead of their own, and a spirit of doing whatever it takes to help mankind, ensuring that good ultimately prevails.  Having just celebrated the 4th of July, I can’t help but reminisce on the outpouring of patriotism and volunteerism shown following the 9/11 attacks.

Catastrophes' and natural disasters have a unique way of quieting the pettiness and busyness of life—causing a re-centering upon God, and a re-prioritization of life as a whole…with a priority often given preference to helping others. This was most recently shown when a tornado hit Tuscaloosa earlier this spring—as noted in last month’s Highlight Reel—ravaging the sporting community shared by rivals Auburn University and the University of Alabama. Now the rivalry between Auburn University’s Tigers and the University of Alabama’s Crimson Tide is said to be closer to war than healthy competition. But opposing players, alumni, and fans alike put aside their differences in team allegiance to contribute to a greater cause—helping fellow Alabamians rebuild and restore their lives. This paradigm shift—expressed through the countless tangible acts of volunteerism offered to the usual foreseeable foe—has unified a, normally divided, community…at least until football season.

As a non-profit organization, Athletes In Action (AIA) the world leader in collegiate and pro sport ministry, has too realized the great contribution volunteers can offer in helping fulfill  a greater cause—the cause of Christ. AIA has intentionally—for the past few years—opened its door of opportunity for countless volunteers seeking to positively influence their local community and world with the love of Christ.

Recently, a group of volunteers successfully led a men’s basketball team to Moldova and Romania—this seemingly traditional sport ministry tour was anything but traditional as AIA has, almost exclusively, operated as a staff-only basis throughout its rich 40+ year heritage. This transformation of thinking outside of the proverbial-ministry-box has increased the excitement and potential visionary fulfillment of having, “A Christ follower on every team, in every sport, in every nation.”

AIA has provided the following volunteer opportunities…and many more for those seeking to be apart of a greater cause…

• By joining Global L.I.F.E. (Labor, Influence, Finance, Expertise) you will help build a ministry movement that will not only change the world, but also change YOUR life and how you see the world.
• Help launch an athletic campus movement with SportLinc. Volunteers here will be given proper ministry tools and resources to launch and lead an athletic movement so that everyone in your athletic department and on your college campus knows someone who truly follows Jesus.

In close, take to heart the words of Margaret Mead, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” Trust God for the increase, just be obedient; ride the tide of change in ministry and volunteer!

Editorial