Mecca Mcrae benefits personally and professionally by volunteering

Winston Churchill famously said, "We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." Mecca McCrae embodies this quote by giving her time and energy to a variety of organizations in Atlanta, including Hosea Helps, Hands On Atlanta, High Museum, Susan G. Komen Greater Atlanta, and the Fox Theater.

Mecca's passion for volunteering started when she was looking for ways to help financially insecure people. She found 4Hosea.org and loved how they touched the lives of so many people in need. "I love to see people share their stories that they are volunteering because Hosea helped them during their time of crisis," she shared.

But Mecca doesn't stop there - she also volunteers as the co-chair of the volunteer committee for Susan G. Komen to support families who have lost loved ones to breast cancer. "Supporting Komen makes me feel like I can help someone to continue sharing the wonderful lives of their loved ones," she said.

“Volunteering has taught me to have a more inclusive tone when I speak to people. It makes me take a mental pause to think about what I am saying, and if what I am going to say will bring peace to someone in need of a simple hug or listening ear.””

— Mecca McRae

Mecca's volunteer work has not only impacted her personal life but also her professional life. "Volunteering has definitely given me exposure to high-level executives from different walks of life. They know that I am dependable and reliable through my actions," she says. In addition, Mecca has honed her skills in inclusivity and learned to be a better listener. "Volunteering has taught me to have a more inclusive tone when I speak to people. It makes me take a mental pause to think about what I am saying, and if what I am going to say will bring peace to someone in need of a simple hug or listening ear."

One of Mecca's most memorable moments as a volunteer was when she created a volunteer opportunity for her team at UPS, and she received another member who asked to keep in touch for her next event. "I make all of my events memorable by sharing my story for volunteering with the organization and I make sure that I let them know that I genuinely appreciate their time and dedication," she said.

As for Atlanta, Mecca loves how the city has grown and changed over the years. From the Westin Peachtree Plaza being the tallest building to the National Center for Civil & Human Rights being built, Atlanta has become a place of endless opportunities. "There are so many wonderful reasons why I love this city and will never give up on it," she said.

“The only time that you should look down on a person is when you are helping them up,” ”

— Mecca McRae

If you're interested in volunteering, Mecca advises finding your passion and researching organizations before volunteering. And if you want to volunteer with her, keep an eye out for events at the Fox Theater - although they are closed for 2023, they send out volunteer invites the first week of February.

Mecca's commitment to volunteering is truly inspiring, and she encourages everyone to volunteer their time to help build our community. "The only time that you should look down on a person is when you are helping them up," she said.

So let's follow Mecca's example and make a difference in our community.

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Feeling inspired by Mecca's amazing volunteer work?

You can help others like her continue to make a positive impact in our community by making a donation to Hands On Atlanta, where every $1 donated turns into $6 of economic impact. Click here to donate now.