Serving for the joy of it with Discovery volunteer, Kimberly Chinn

For long time Hands On Atlanta volunteer, Kimberly Chinn, giving back is all about the smiles. Whether she’s putting them on the faces of students in our Discovery program or they’re putting the smile on hers, volunteering is all about getting those grins.

Learn more about what drives Kimberly to continue to serve youth and families and how you can help spread the joy to students for the 2022/23 school year.

What do you love most about the organization you volunteer with? Why do you volunteer with them?

Working with the Hands On Atlanta Discovery program has been an amazing experience! The joy, the energy, the love I receive from my Discovery kiddos give me life! Hands On Atlanta has supported and provided an ideal volunteer experience, but it also makes me feel like I'm truly a part of the solution to help the next generation of youth thrive.

What impact areas or pressing needs facing Atlanta do you care about most? Why?

Homelessness has been a huge issue since I moved to Atlanta in 1999. I don't feel that anyone should be unhoused, especially with the resources we have in the city. Everyone deserves to be in a safe space.

“The transition to a virtual format has been an overwhelming success in my eyes. While we are not able to serve the number of students we used to, the kids have been engaged and empowered!”

— Kimberly Chinn

How has the Covid-19 pandemic affected your volunteering efforts?

Discovery has traditionally been an in-person project. When the pandemic started, I didn't know how the program would move forward. The transition to a virtual format has been an overwhelming success in my eyes. While we are not able to serve the number of students we used to, the kids have been engaged and empowered!

Can you share a memorable highlight or moment you've experienced that might motivate others to volunteer?

The most recently highlight was being able to surprise our Brookview students at school! The smiles on their faces when they were able to see the Discovery team in person instead of virtually was priceless! A moment I'll never forget!

Is there anything else you think our community should know about you, your volunteer service, or your commitment to Do Something Good!

I am committed to serving our youth and families! My goal is to continue to do everything possible to support the growth and positive development of our youth.

Volunteering in April? Share where, when and if others can join you or how they can get involved.

I'll continue to support the Discovery program in April. While that will be the end of our season, we welcome volunteers for the 2022-2023 school year!

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Inspired by Kimberly’s story?

Help us engage and highlight incredible efforts like hers, by making a donation to Hands On Atlanta. It takes hard work AND financial support to tackle Atlanta’s most pressing needs. When you let our hands be yours, every $1 invested turns into $6 of economic impact! Donate now and help ensure a more civically engaged and equitable Atlanta.