From Music to Migration: Greyson’s Volunteer Story

• What nonprofit(s) are you involved with?

I am directly involved with two nonprofits – Raleigh Music Collective and Pitstop for the Birds. I also do some other volunteer work with other nonprofits such as the Pauli Murray Center. 

• How did you first get connected?  

I first learned about both organizations through my work at Triangle Community Foundation and as I sought to grow my understanding and knowledge of nonprofits in the Triangle. 

• Why does this cause matter to you? What sparked your interest/passion for serving at this organization? 

Music education and the environment are two big passions for me. I used to be a music teacher and taught concert bands, jazz bands, and marching bands. While I am not teaching anymore, my passion for music and access to music education, especially in light of funding cuts to the arts in schools, remains strong. I want to ensure that everyone has access to music education and can take part in the joy and community of making music. 

Nature, animals, and the environment are another important cause for me. I think it is incredibly valuable and necessary to ensure that as humans we are being careful and intentional creatures who live alongside thousands upon millions of species. Humans have had a long and detrimental impact on the environment that has serious implications for many animals, and careful stewardship is also important for long-term stability of the planet. In the face of climate destabilization, I wanted to get involved in restoring natural plant life and animals to areas where human activity has driven them out so they can continue to thrive and survive.  

 

• What does your involvement look like (board, committee, mentor, event volunteer, etc.)? What’s the time commitment like? 

I serve as a board member for both Pitstop for the Birds and The Raleigh Music Collective. I have also been able to offer other technical skills and services for each organization in support of grant writing, strategy, storytelling, and even photography for events!  

• What has surprised you about serving?

I don’t know if it’s surprising, but I have been overwhelmed by seeing the passion and support that everyone brings to these organizations. Not only are there incredible staff at each organization, but each board is made up of driven and brilliant people whose energy is infectious.  It has also been so amazing to see these passions carried forward to the students who are involved in the programming of each organization. 

•  What would you say to someone who thinks they “don’t have enough time”?  

There are so many different ways you can get involved in supporting local nonprofits. Try getting together with a group of your friends and do a volunteer day together. Come out to events and reach out to staff to offer any of your special skills or talents. Every small interaction with a nonprofit helps to demonstrate that they are fulfilling an important need in the community, so look for some organizations that align with your passions, and you’ll be surprised at how quickly it becomes a new, regular part of your schedule.  

• What are different ways someone could support these organizations?  

Both the Raleigh Music Collective and Pitstop for the Birds are 501(c)(3) organizations and financial support and contributions are always welcome! If you have any children who are either interested in music or the environment, bring them to events. Come to our concerts and help spread the word about the work we do!