Answering the Call
by Jeannine Gage
Leadership Seminole has been shaping community leaders and strengthening Seminole County for more than three decades. Known for its immersive 10-month program that brings together professionals from business, government, healthcare, and nonprofit sectors, the organization’s mission has always been about encouraging action.
To that end, Leadership Seminole’s annual Call to Service event is set to return for its sixth year this fall.
On October 24 from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m., civic-minded residents are invited to The Rink at Northland Church in Longwood for a unique chance to connect with local nonprofits. The event, chaired by Michelle Saporito, is designed for those who are eager to give back – whether for a single day or through an ongoing commitment.
Making an Impact
“Call to Service is an opportunity for individuals who have always been curious about a specific organization and how to get started as a volunteer,” says Michelle, a member of Leadership Seminole’s Executive Council. “It’s a chance to discover where your skills and passions can make the greatest impact.”
This year, about 40 nonprofit organizations will be on hand representing a wide range of causes that include homelessness, food insecurity, animal welfare, arts and culture, healthcare, and education. Attendees will be able to explore volunteer roles ranging from one-day events to long-term board service. Each booth will be clearly marked with information about the type of work available and whether opportunities are family-friendly or youth-oriented.
“It’s important for us to make volunteering accessible to everyone,” says Michelle. “We have opportunities for children, teens, college students, and adults, as well as ways for families to serve together.”
The event will follow an expo-style format with light breakfast and refreshments provided. Guests will also hear from keynote speaker Dr. Keita Joy, CEO of Success Uncensored Coaching, who is known for her dynamic and motivational teaching style. Her message will focus on inspiring attendees to not just envision change, but to step forward and become the change.
Admission to the event is free, and the participating organizations will not be fundraising.
The Heart of the Matter
“This day is purely about connecting people with the causes they care about, without any pressure to give money,” says Michelle. “We want them to give their time, their skills, and their heart.”
Penny Seater, chief executive officer of Habitat for Humanity Seminole-Apopka, says the Call to Service event is important for organizations like hers.
“For us, it raises awareness and provides information on ways for community leaders and members to engage with their hometown Habitat affiliate,” says Penny. “In addition, it allows our staff to meet other nonprofits to see how we can partner with them to better serve our community’s most vulnerable together.”
The seeds for Call to Service were sown by Leadership Seminole alumni who wanted a way to stay involved and continue giving back even after their 10-month program was over. Over time, the idea grew into a community-wide event that now draws close to 200 attendees each year.
For anyone looking to make a difference – whether it’s helping at a weekend festival, mentoring a student, or serving on a board – Call to Service shines a light on Seminole County’s nonprofit organizations and the needs of the community.
“It’s all about connecting people with purpose,” says Michelle. “When you find the right place to serve, you not only help others – you grow as a leader and as a person.”
Leadership Seminole’s Sixth Annual Call to Service will be from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m. October 24 at The Rink at Northland Church, at 522 Dog Track Road in Longwood. The keynote speaker will be Dr. Keita Joy, motivational teacher and success coach. Admission is free and open to the public.