Volunteer Spotlight: Carrie Finds Purpose and Friendship at Outreach Uganda
Five years ago, Carrie was invited by a friend and fellow Outreach Uganda volunteer to stop by the organization and see if it might be a good fit for her. That simple invitation turned into something lasting.
“I realized rather quickly that it was a truly special nonprofit organization that works tirelessly to help the women and children of Uganda have a better life,” Carrie says.
Carrie began volunteering weekly and soon found ways to apply her professional experience. With a degree in Fashion Merchandising and a background managing a large-scale retail store, she now helps Outreach Uganda present its handcrafted products in the most appealing way possible.
“I use my education and work background to provide input for cohesive product presentation and what might possibly appeal to potential customers,” she explains.
Carrie believes deeply in women supporting women. “The women of this world need to unite as one,” she says. “I feel that supporting Outreach Uganda in a small way helps empower women.”
Her volunteer work has also been eye-opening and humbling. Through her involvement, Carrie has learned about the daily challenges faced by Ugandan women and children, and she’s gained a greater appreciation for opportunities often taken for granted in the U.S.
“Volunteering for Outreach Uganda has been a very humbling experience,” she shares. “I have learned the obstacles that people in Uganda face and how truly privileged we are for the opportunities that we have here.”
Over the years, Carrie has also developed new skills and insights. “Through volunteering, I’ve learned small business skills and seen just how much work goes into running a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization,” she says.
Outreach Uganda’s mission resonates strongly with her. “All humans deserve to have a sense of pride in themselves and the possibility of home ownership,” Carrie says. “My volunteer hours are personally fulfilling because I know I’m making a small contribution to the greater good for people less fortunate than myself.”
Carrie encourages others to get involved, too—whether through volunteering, sponsoring a child, or making a donation.
“If your time is already stretched thin and volunteering right now isn’t an option, sponsoring a child’s education is a wonderful way to support Outreach Uganda,” she says. “Another great way is to ask your church or company to make a donation that is tax-deductible.”
For Carrie, volunteering is about more than just helping others—it’s also about community and connection.
“One enjoyable aspect of volunteering at Outreach Uganda is building relationships with the other volunteers,” she shares. “Being out of the workforce, this replaces the camaraderie that I truly missed. We have a good time and laugh while we work, knowing that we’re helping other women build better lives.”
Join Us!
If you’d like to learn more about volunteer opportunities at Outreach Uganda or other ways to get involved, please contact us or learn more here. Together, we can empower women and give children hope for a brighter future.
