Step forward to volunteer, make a difference Published Nov. 20, 2006 By Lt. Col. J.J. Hokaj 32nd Flying Training Squadron Vance Air Force Base, Okla. -- Our great nation was founded on the principle there is something larger than self, and individuals volunteered their time, treasure and talents for a common purpose that has stood the test of time. The need for people to come together for a common cause is still out there, so step forward and make a difference. Mark Twain once commented, "Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed with the things that you didn't do than the ones you did do. So throw off your bowline. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the tradewinds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover." I see this as a challenge for personal growth that can be realized through community service. Every community has individuals who need help, but the benefits of volunteering go beyond helping someone in need. Often the one who benefits the most is the volunteer. Volunteer service is a great way for military members to connect with their local community, and for the community to connect with the military. Civilian association with the military has declined over the past few years as we transformed from a draft-era force to a chosen profession (and then downsized). On average, we move every three years, and it is challenging to be the new one in town. By getting involved in local issues, you immediately have a common purpose and bond. Association with civilians through volunteer service truly reconnects us with those we serve. This can lead to friendships lasting a lifetime and is easily used as the "tradewind" to explore and discover your community. Additionally, your past experiences, skills and different perspective tells our stories, and may help those with whom you interact discover new solutions to challenging problems. Perhaps you dream of learning a new skill. Some people are troubled by the idea of personally benefiting from volunteer service, but there are many organizations needing a labor force to put the broken pieces of people's lives together. In many of these organizations, you can essentially apprentice with qualified and certified professionals who are supervising the worksite. You will discover a great sense of accomplishment by strengthening community ties while learning a skill you can then use in your own life. You may even find yourself as the mentor once you leave the safe harbor. Leadership opportunities abound within volunteer programs. These opportunities will provide many unique challenges undoubtedly improving your own leadership skills. The organization, delegation and motivation skills you employ by assuming a leadership role in volunteer service will teach you about yourself. It will also help to refine and improve your leadership style. The old adage "practice makes perfect" comes into play, and ultimately, this newly-gained knowledge will benefit your unit and your military service. Throw off that bowline. Be an agent for change. Connect with and make a difference in your community. Meet new people who aren't affiliated with the military. Learn their stories and tell yours while learning new skills and becoming a better leader. In the words of St. Francis of Assisi, "Remember that when you leave this earth, you can take nothing that you have received, only what you have given."