My volunteer story: preserving Kennebunkport's natural beauty

Posted on Jul 28, 2011

Posted by Bridget, Citizen’s Advocacy Representative

I often hear people use the phrase, “no good deed goes unpunished,” which I find highly discouraging and incredibly defeatist. After all, why should I go out of my way to help someone if it’s just going to come back and bite me in the end? I personally think it’s this sentiment that keeps many from making time to volunteer.

Lucky for me, my own good deed of volunteering has yet to be punished with anything but rewarding physical labor, good conversation and iconic ocean views.

I use my volunteer benefit at Tom’s of Maine to help out at the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust, a nonprofit organization committed to preserving the beauty and character of our community. Whether creating hiking and mountain biking trails, protecting wildlife refuge, or restoring our town’s historic sites, the Trust is dedicated to preserving land in conservation for use by current and future generations.

My work for the Trust has been varied. On Day 1, I joined board members for a site walk of Timber Point, a property the organization is currently raising money to try and acquire. On Day 2, I helped to position a birch stick moose designed and donated by local elementary school students. On Day 3 I traveled out to Goat Island Lightstation for what has quickly become my favorite task; helping to keep the island weeded and welcoming to visitors during construction to restore the Lightstation to the 1950’s period.

Volunteering at the Trust has helped to connect me with my neighbors while feeling that I am making a worthwhile contribution. And yet, it never feels like work, and I certainly never feel punished.

For me the key is that I chose an organization that not only aligns to my own values, but was also already one of my favorite places to hang out. I can’t count the number of times I’ve gone for a hike on the Trust trails, or sat around the fire with friends on Goat Island. While enjoying these treasures, it feels appropriate to also pitch in and help preserve them.

And frankly, there is little punishment to weeding while surrounded by water and watching a Kennebunkport sunset.