Alexis Hird (AH), alongside her family, dedicated her Day of Giving to the Lakeair Association, focusing on environmental preservation. This small yet passionate community banded together to clear debris from recent dust storms, enhancing the natural beauty of their surroundings while promoting sustainable practices.
AC: What organization or local cause did you volunteer for?
AH: Over the course of about 9 hours, I had the opportunity to volunteer with my family to help the Lakeair Association clean up debris and litter left behind by recent dust storms. We worked together to remove various types of waste and debris, contributing to the preservation of the environment and improving the local area’s appearance. It was a rewarding experience, allowing us to make a positive impact on the community while spending quality time together. Our collective efforts helped restore the natural beauty of the area, and it felt great to be part of a team committed to environmental stewardship.
AC: Can you please provide an overview of their mission?
AH: The Lakeair Association is a small, close-knit community of around 25 members dedicated to maintaining and improving our farmland development. As part of our efforts, we focus on cleaning up the land, ensuring it remains a clean, safe, and beautiful environment for everyone. In addition to the physical work, we aim to spread positive energy and offer helpful tips to homeowners on sustainable practices, land care, and ways to enhance the overall well-being of the community. Through collaboration and shared knowledge, the Lakeair Association fosters a supportive and environmentally-conscious atmosphere.
AC: Was this your first time volunteering for this organization or cause? Please elaborate.
AH: This is my second year volunteering with the Lakeair Association, and it has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Over the past two years, I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to various projects, including cleaning up our farmland development and promoting sustainable practices within the community. Being part of this small but dedicated group has allowed me to connect with others who share a passion for maintaining a clean, healthy environment. Each year, I gain valuable knowledge and strengthen my commitment to supporting the association’s efforts to enhance the well-being of our community and promote positive change for homeowners.
AC: Where there any requirements for this type of volunteerism?
AH: To volunteer with the Lakeair Association, there are a few key requirements. Volunteers must be able to stand for long periods of time, as the work often involves physical activity such as cleaning up debris and maintaining our farmland development. Additionally, volunteers must live in our mini-town, fostering a sense of community involvement. Above all, a positive attitude and a genuine passion for nature are essential, as the work is centered around environmental care and promoting sustainability. Volunteers who bring good energy and a love for the outdoors are a perfect fit for our group!
AC: Why did you choose to volunteer here for your Day of Giving?
AH: I chose to volunteer with the Lakeair Association because of its close proximity to my home, making it convenient and easy for me to get involved. What really draws me to this opportunity is the ability to witness the positive changes firsthand. Once the work is completed, I can see the immediate impact of our efforts on the community and the environment, which makes the experience even more rewarding. It’s incredibly fulfilling to contribute to something so local and personal, knowing that my efforts directly benefit the area I live in.
AC: Can you tell us about your volunteer experience? What did you do? Did your time volunteering meet your expectations?
AH: Volunteering with the Lakeair Association exceeded all of my expectations! I had a blast connecting with the older generation of nature enthusiasts who share a deep passion for wildlife. Their knowledge and energy were contagious, making the experience even more enjoyable. I also got to spend time with some cows and chickens, which was a highlight for me since I absolutely love animals. It was such a fun and fulfilling way to spend my time—helping the environment, learning from others, and getting to interact with some adorable animals along the way!
AC: What would you like to share to encourage others to volunteer their time and energy locally?
AH: Volunteering with the Lakeair Association offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible impact on the environment and strengthen your connection to the community. By volunteering, you contribute directly to maintaining and improving our farmland development, ensuring a cleaner, healthier space for everyone to enjoy. It’s a chance to spend time outdoors, connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for nature, and spread positive energy throughout the community. Volunteering also allows you to gain valuable skills, deepen your appreciation for the environment, and feel the satisfaction of working together towards a common goal. Ultimately, it’s a rewarding way to give back, create lasting change, and be part of something meaningful.
AC: Is there anything else that you would like to share about your experience?
AH: I had a great time volunteering with the Lakeair Association! The experience was everything I could have asked for—rewarding, fun, and fulfilling. I truly recommend that everyone take the opportunity to dedicate a day of giving to volunteer. Whether you’re passionate about the environment, connecting with others, or simply giving back to the community, it’s a meaningful way to spend your time and make a real difference.
AC: Are there any links to the organization, additional educational resources, etc. that you would like to share?
AH: The Lakeair Association doesn’t have any online resources—it’s a grassroots group that was founded purely by word of mouth. I first heard about it when I started renting a property nearby, and it immediately caught my attention. I’ve always been passionate about maintaining a natural landscape around my home, so the idea of volunteering with a group that shares this focus really resonated with me. The sense of community and the opportunity to actively contribute to preserving the environment made it a perfect fit for my interests and values.
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For Alexis, volunteering with the Lakeair Association was not only about improving the environment but also about strengthening community ties and spreading positivity. Her commitment to environmental stewardship serves as an inspiring reminder of the difference one can make locally. Discover more impactful stories in our Inspiring Forward series https://activusconnect.com/inspiring-forward.