In May of 2023, United States Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy released a new advisory calling attention to the public health crisis of loneliness, isolation, and lack of connection in our country. The advisory specifically calls out volunteerism and community engagement as a prescription. Through Besa, the Quinones family has found a way to stay connected and invite others to join in their journey of doing good.
Lauren Quinones learned the importance of volunteering from her mom, Laurie. After the devastating and unexpected loss of her mother at the age of 12, Lauren and her father, Carlos have found solace in service.
Together with Renee, who later met Carlos and joined their family, they discovered a gateway to impact and belonging through Besa.
Lauren started small by writing encouragement cards at home for nonprofits like Ronald McDonald House Charities. “I have pretty bad anxiety,” Lauren said, “but being creative helps. It’s a win-win for me to be able to help others while being artistic.”
Volunteering became a way for Lauren not only to channel her anxiety into creativity and compassion but also to help her thrive. Soon she was signing up to get out in the community. She prepared meals at Van Buren Shelter, packed condoms with Equitas and organized clothing at Charity Newsies.
“I used to have so much social anxiety that I would be nervous on the way to volunteer opportunities,” Lauren said. “But now I’m excited about the people I’ll meet when I get there. Volunteering has improved my ability to hold conversations, helped my social skills and given me more confidence.”
And Lauren wasn’t the only one experiencing the impact of doing good. The whole family regularly volunteers together.
“I love that Besa allows me to give back in such an efficient way,” Carlos said.“ It’s a blessing to bless others.” Renee added, “Volunteering keeps us engaged and active. The impact is huge.”
The Quinones family is a testament to the power of volunteering. Through Besa, they are defying the epidemic of loneliness, connecting to the community and helping Columbus thrive.
The Quinones family’s story wouldn’t be possible without the support of donors like you. Your gift to Besa ignites a spark that brings people together, multiplies good and inspires others. Join us to connect more people committed to doing good, together.
Your support will help Besa double community impact by increasing the number of volunteer experiences and people engaged by 2025.
Bring people together. Give today.
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About Besa
Besa is a Columbus-based nonprofit dedicated to powering a wave of civic engagement that lifts us all. We fulfill critical needs by connecting people to community service. Every day, we make giving back easy—and transformative.