“It is one of the beautiful compensations of life that no man can sincerely try to help another without helping himself.” ― Ralph Waldo Emerson
By Rick Bass
I used this powerful quote to describe my creative consulting position directing a unique cable television program called, “Raising Awareness.” This innovative cable television project was created and staffed by disabled individuals with various levels of abilities including those with limited mobility and some restricted to wheelchairs. I learned valuable life lessons – not limiting one’s abilities because of a disability. This creative and demanding environment richly blessed me and all who participated in this inclusive culture of caring and connecting on a deeper human level. And…we all learned we are far more alike than different.
This volunteer position grew into a paid position resulting in many hours of informational programming for the disabled by the disabled. “Excellence in Cable Broadcasting” awards and national recognition help to reward those who participated with greater self-confidence and adapted technical skills. A “new normal” was established for those who were identified as too limited or disabled to participate in the technically challenging and exclusive environment of television production. The project reintegrated many of the disabled community into mainstream society. The powerful effect of this “win-win” attitude resulted in creating an environment of cohesiveness, purpose and inclusion.
This experience helped to guide me through a lifelong journey of volunteerism. It included training service dogs for the disabled, working with a governmental delegation from the country of Kazakhstan and chairing the recent Vail Preservation Society’s “Voices of Vail” documentary. All have provided me with a greater appreciation of the potential of the human spirit. I have received far more than I have freely contributed from all of these amazing experiences.
“My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.”
- John F. Kennedy
This quote becomes more relevant as years pass and begs the question, how do I really make a difference in my community and what do I have yet to offer? To answer this important question, I created the Vail Ready web site and I write monthly articles in The Vail Voice to keep Vail residents informed and engaged.
I hope my simple narrative above will inspire the readers of The Vail Voice to volunteer their talents and time (especially our youth) in contributing and answering the call to “just serve.” It can be the beginning of a life-long legacy of giving, learning and personal growth.
The Vail ready web site has many “Community Links” and resources.Listed below are volunteer web sites/resources and “Save the Date.”
Save the Date: Saturday, Oct. 23, 2021- National Day of Service. The Greater Vail Community can participate in the National Day of Service by signing-up and volunteering at these Facebook pages: Vail Serves Vail and Vail Community Programs. This important national day of community service is sponsored by the Vail School District and Vail Interfaith Council.
Americorps – https://americorps.gov/
Just Serve – https://www.justserve.org/
Keep America Beautiful – https://kab.org/
Peace Corps – https://www.peacecorps.gov/
Please visit: Vailready.wordpress.com
Rick Bass is a USAF Veteran. He has extensive background in crisis management, suicide prevention and re-source development for the disabled. A lifelong community volunteer and a new age music composer, he enjoys the expansive beauty of the Vail area.
