Sarina Marsh is a dynamic and enthusiastic volunteer in Atlanta, who is making a positive impact in her community through her involvement with various nonprofit organizations. With her passion for education and youth development, Sarina is making a difference in the lives of Atlanta's next generation. In this volunteer spotlight, Sarina shares how volunteering is not just about giving back, it's also about connecting with like-minded individuals, exploring the city she loves, and finding joy in making a meaningful difference.

"I believe that education is the key to unlocking opportunities for our youth and improving our community's future," says Sarina. "Volunteering allows me to contribute towards this cause and make a tangible impact on the lives of young people."

As a member of the Junior League of Atlanta, Sarina is excited about the opportunities it provides for her to connect, serve her community, and grow alongside other service-minded women. She also serves as a Board Member with the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network Atlanta, where she finds fulfillment in building a community and supporting professionals in the nonprofit sector.

"Being a part of these organizations has allowed me to meet amazing people who share my passion for giving back, and it's been an incredible journey of personal and professional growth," says Sarina.

Volunteering has not only impacted Sarina's personal life, but also her professional life. As a Volunteer Manager with Junior Achievement (JA) of Georgia, she has honed her skills in communication, collaboration, and interpersonal relationships. She believes that volunteering has reinforced her belief in the importance of positive youth development and education beyond the classroom.

"Volunteering reminds me to stay humble and to do good even when there is no audience. It has also influenced my work with Junior Achievement, where I strive to provide volunteers with a best-in-class experience," shares Sarina.

One of Sarina's most memorable volunteer experiences was during the 2020-2021 school year, when she served as a Monday Reading Program volunteer through the United Way. She recalls a heartwarming moment when she witnessed a student she had been paired with earlier in the year read aloud with confidence and ease.

"That experience reminded me of the importance of consistency, showing up for others, and the joy of giving your time to something you're passionate about," says Sarina with a smile.

Apart from her volunteer work, Sarina also loves Atlanta for its diversity in food, activities, and entertainment. She is a self-proclaimed Beltline regular and a food hall advocate, with Chattahoochee Food Works being her current obsession. She enjoys exploring the city like a tourist, visiting the High Museum Frequency Fridays, Atlanta Botanical Garden, Ponce City Market, and Piedmont Park for walks or festivals. According to Sarina, Atlanta has something for everyone.

For those interested in getting involved with volunteering, Sarina has some valuable advice: "Think about what brings you joy and what you're passionate about, and research nonprofits whose work aligns with that. Hands on Atlanta is a great resource for finding daily volunteer opportunities."

As April is Financial Literacy Month, Sarina encourages others to join her in volunteering at Junior Achievement's JA Discovery Centers, where volunteers can make a difference in middle school students' lives through programs focused on financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and career readiness. She invites everyone to visit georgia.ja.org/volunteer to find opportunities at a JA Discovery Center near them, and if they volunteer downtown, she looks forward to seeing you!

Feeling inspired by Sarina’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.