Leadership Collier Foundation hosts its annual Volunteer Expo

ERICA FISH, Public Policy Intern

The Greater Naples Chamber’s Leadership Collier Foundation recently hosted its annual “Get Involved, Collier Volunteer Expo,” highlighting volunteer opportunities throughout Southwest Florida.

Sponsored by the United Way of Collier and the Keys, the Community Foundation of Collier County and Grant Fridkin Pearson, the seventh annual event provides attendees with the overall sense of engagement and becoming part of issues Collier County residents are most concerned about in their communities.

The 2021 expo featured 70 nonprofit and governmental organizations seeking volunteers, said Amanda Beights, the senior director of leadership programming. Most participants are members or partners of the Greater Naples Chamber. The Volunteer Expo is an opportunity for attendees to quickly access the opportunities available around them - from board positions to youth opportunities and talent missions to make a difference.

Beights said the event supports the Leadership Collier Foundation’s mission to activate potential leaders and promote a stronger Collier County.

Community leadership efforts means dedicating time, talent and treasure, all the while making a difference in Collier County. By networking with representatives from these organizations gave attendees the chance to see what missions they could be a part of when investing in community leadership efforts.

“Our mission would not happen if it weren’t for the hundreds of volunteers who do significant work” said Beights. “We cannot accomplish our mission to address community needs without this vital community leadership.”

The purpose of volunteering is for people to get involved and enforce committed, positive change. That kind of community engagement enhances the involvement for members and their abilities to be part of the developing talent and advocating roles.

“Be informed, be engaged, be the difference,” said Beights. “That is our message and this is how we work to build a stronger Collier.”