Volunteer Spotlight: Serving with Compassion and Purpose
Some people volunteer because they want to give back. Others find that, along the way, volunteering changes them.
For this month’s Volunteer Spotlight, we’re recognizing John Callaghan whose commitment to serving others is rooted in a lifelong dedication to public service, compassion, and faithfulness.
John’s journey with the Brunswick County Homeless Coalition began after being encouraged to get involved by Rita Canfield, one of the founding members of BCHC. The two attended the same church, and that connection opened the door to becoming part of the Coalition’s mission.
Today, John serves on the board and as the Secretary, preparing meeting minutes, handling correspondence, and making sure donors receive thoughtful acknowledgements for their support. John has also taken on the important work of writing grant applications on behalf of BCHC—helping provide resources that make the Coalition’s work possible. Members are so grateful for this task he is willing to take on.
John’s desire to serve the community comes naturally from his professional background. Before retirement, his career centered largely around public service, first as a teacher and later in public administration with county government in Northern Virginia. Continuing to serve through volunteering was a natural extension of that commitment.
John stated “The problem of homelessness was one I cared about and one I wanted to help remedy.”
When asked what keeps him coming back to serve, his answer is rooted in faith. The words of Matthew 25:35–40 guide his efforts, reminding us of the importance of caring for others and recognizing the dignity of those in need.
But perhaps one of the most powerful parts of his experience has been what he claims to have received in return…
Working alongside the many dedicated volunteers who care deeply about their community and their neighbors has been “incredibly inspiring.” John explains that through that experience, volunteering has also changed my own perspective on those experiencing hardship.
He believes he has become less judgmental about those in need, recognizing that circumstances can affect anyone and that compassion should come before assumptions.
When asked what John wished more people understood about the individuals BCHC serves, his response was simple and powerful:
“The people we serve are no different than we are.”
He believes everyone deserves compassion and all the help we can provide to give them the opportunity to have a good life.
For someone considering volunteering but unsure where to begin, John’s advice is encouraging: start with what you care about. Think about what you enjoy, start small, and consider helping with just one event to get a feel for volunteering. There is no need to have a particular set of “special skills.” Simply being present and being willing to help can make a difference.
And if the first opportunity isn’t the right fit, keep looking.
“You can always find one that works for you.”
Ultimately, their message to the community is one that reflects the heart of the Brunswick County Homeless Coalition:
“Simply put, we are all in this together. We can all play a part in making this a better world.”
We are grateful for volunteers who give their time, talents, and hearts to our community. Their service reminds us that meaningful change doesn’t always begin with something big—it begins when someone is willing to show up, care, and help.
Thank you, John, for being part of the BCHC family and for helping make our community a better place.
