How Volunteering Can Champion Your Career Goals: Liz’s Story
February 17, 2025
Written by Liz Jacobs, Marketing Content Creator at All Hands and Hearts – Liz began her journey with All Hands and Hearts as a volunteer in 2021, seeking purpose after a personal loss. What started as a short-term volunteering trip turned into a transformative career, leading her from fieldwork to a full-time role on the marketing team. Now as our exceptional Content Creator, Liz combines her passions for storytelling, photography and videography with AHAH’s mission, capturing the resilience of communities and the power of volunteering.
In 2021, I found myself at a crossroads after a major loss in my family. Seeking a mental reset and a way to contribute to something bigger than myself, I signed up for a volunteer trip with All Hands and Hearts (AHAH) to support Hurricane Ida relief in Louisiana. What started as a short-term trip to heal turned into a life-changing journey, eventually leading me to a career I never imagined was possible.
Shortly after meeting the team in Louisiana, I felt a sense of hope that revealed to me that I didn’t have to feel lost forever. There was beauty and purpose out in the world, waiting for me to find it. There were enriching conversations to be had, worldly people to connect with and stories of resilience to be heard. I left Louisiana with more than just memories — I left with a newfound sense of direction.
One night, in the base parking lot, an older woman named Linda approached me. She told me she could sense that I was going through something and asked if she could give me a hug. I had never experienced a stranger reaching out with such compassion and a genuine desire to understand me. I shared my story with her, and in the following days, we spent time talking, dancing and even braiding each other’s hair. People like Linda are the reason I love AHAH. While we are here to support those affected by disasters, we also care for and support each other.
From Volunteer to Staff Member
After my experience in Louisiana, I joined AHAH’s wildfire relief program in Northern California as a staff member, a decision I believe is one of the best I’ve ever made. Working directly with affected communities taught me skills I never expected to gain, from leadership and project management to stress management and resilience.
I’ve had the privilege of serving communities in their greatest time of need, forming lifelong friendships and experiencing both the highs and lows that come with meaningful work. There were moments of joy that made me feel unstoppable and moments of challenge that brought me to tears. Each one shaped me into the person I am today.
Finding My Place at AHAH
Time and time again while working with AHAH, I’ve felt a deep sense of peace and purpose, knowing I am exactly where I need to be. The organization’s commitment to disaster relief, community rebuilding and resilience has continuously reaffirmed my passion for the work. The connections I’ve forged and the impact I’ve witnessed have kept me coming back, further strengthening my belief in AHAH’s mission.
Making content, specifically photography and videography, have been hobbies of mine since I was in elementary school. All throughout grade school, I was known as “the girl who likes taking pictures.” Going into adulthood, that love has remained. Having the opportunity to pursue my greatest passions while working for a cause I believe in fills me with gratitude for following that sense of peace that led me to where I am today.
Following this path led me to a full-time role on the marketing team, where I’ve now been for over two years. Recently, I transitioned into a new position as a Content Creator, a role that perfectly aligns with my career aspirations and AHAH’s mission to share powerful stories of resilience and recovery.
Take the Leap
From rural Texas to the Himalayan foothills of Nepal, I’ve visited places I never imagined going. Each community is unique, yet all share the incredible power of compassion and resilience in the face of adversity. These experiences have broadened my perspective, deepened my empathy, and inspired me through the kindness and strength of the people I’ve met.
Many people think volunteering is just about giving back, but it also fuels immense personal growth. Even if it doesn’t lead to your dream job, stepping out of your routine to serve others can shift your perspective and reveal new paths you never considered. You won’t know unless you take the leap.
So, take a chance. Do something that scares you. Growth happens outside of comfort zones. I could have never imagined the personal transformation, the people I would meet, and the places I would go when I took that late September trip to Louisiana three years ago. If you’re considering volunteering, go for it—you might just find your purpose along the way.
Learn more about our current volunteering opportunities here.
Want to stay up to date with All Hands and Hearts’ disaster relief efforts?
Questions go to our team at emailing [email protected].
