Q&A: Valerie Zeffiro, Sachem Student and Volunteer

For Sachem East student Valerie Zeffiro, volunteering is a way of life. Sachem Patch spoke with Zeffiro about her projects and achievements, as well as why volunteering is so important.

Sachem Patch: What kinds of projects have you done?

Valerie Zeffiro: I have been volunteering since I was a young girl. I always participated in community service events through my church…Girl Scouts, school and sports organizations. I have participated in numerous volunteer activities with the Special Olympics New York. Additionally, I have participated in volunteer efforts for the United Way, American Cancer Society, Habitat for Humanity, area soup kitchens, food banks [and other activities].

SP: What is your most memorable volunteering experience?

VZ: One of my passions is swimming … After volunteering at a Special Olympics swimming competition three years ago, I decided that I wanted to do something to help individuals with disabilities to continue to enjoy the benefits I have gained from swimming. I decided to initiate a fundraising activity to benefit the Special Olympics of New York.

I researched upcoming Special Olympics activities and discovered that the ‘Freezin for a Reason’ Polar Plunge appeared to be a fun, wacky way to support the athletes of the Special Olympics … The first year my team raised over $4,600 for the Special Olympics, and the second year was equally as successful. To date, I have raised over $10,000 for the Special Olympics NY.

SP: What is your favorite part about volunteering?

VZ: Volunteering is not something you will be paid for; the benefits are actually greater than money itself. When you take part in these activities, you get closer to people, make new acquaintances and give others hope. The selfless act of helping a person/cause/nature provides a spiritual boost as well. Knowing you did something good for someone or some cause is an emotionally uplifting experience that can never be matched by money or fame.

SP: Why is it important for people to volunteer?

VZ: The world is not a perfect place, and many people, animals, places and communities need help. Governments and professionals try to meet everyone’s needs, but it’s impossible for them to do it all. This is why people become volunteers: because they can make a difference…If people never help each other and only care about themselves, the world becomes a crueler, sadder place.