Do Good Date Night Combines Volunteerism with Date Night for Community Impact
Spending quality time together while making a community impact is the goal of the Connections Volunteer Center (Connections) sponsored, Do Good Date Night (DGDN).
Founded in Florida in 2015 by blogger, Kristen Maniari, DGDN was created to allow for a unique and rewarding volunteer experience that couples could enjoy together. Event begins with an hour of giving back at a local non-profit, followed by friends, food and fun.
When Connections Program Director, Suzanne Pingry, heard of the opportunity she sprang at the chance to bring this unique date night experience to Delaware County. “We were thrilled to be able to bring DGDN to Delaware County as it’s a great way to get couples involved with local nonprofits while having fun to
gether,” said Pingry. “I’m excited to see how DGDN grows within our community.”
Connections has hosted a total of two DGDN events this year at LSS Food Pantry in February and People in Need (PIN) in May, in support of the National Letter Carrier’s Stamp Out Hunger campaign.
“The impact being made from just two hours of work is incredible,” said Colleen Dennis, Community Resource Coordinator at Connections. ”At PIN participants sorted approximately 2,700 pounds of food donations. At LSS, participants did about 40 hours of work in a matter of 60 minutes.”
Not only do organizations get valuable help, but participating couples are reaping benefits as well. “We feel serving others is one of the most rewarding things you can do,” commented D
GDN participant Megan Heuss.”Do Good Date Night offers the opportunity to serve alongside someone you love!”
Two-time DGDN participate Melissa Harris said that growing up she was taught to give what she could, even if all she had to give was time because there is always someone worse off. “Through my years of volunteering I have met wonderful fellow volunteers with the same outlook on life. Showing someone in need that they are not forgotten is the best gift I can give them,” said Harris.
The third DGDN is slated for Friday, Nov. 15 at the Andrews House – located in the heart of downtown Delaware. The volunteer hour will consist of decorating for the holidays followed by dinner and a group game.
“The decorations are so important,” said Mel Corotto, Executive Director at Andrews House. “Andrews House provides many programs for the community. One example is our family portrait program where we work with local photography students who take portraits for families in need. It’s important to give a warm, inviting place for people of all circumstances to come to and feel like they are at home.”
To learn more or register for the upcoming DGDN, visit http://thedogooddatenight.connectionsvolunteercenter.org/
*Article submitted by Erin Coss, Marketing and Training Coordinator, Connections Volunteer Center
