Do You Know a Woman Who Has Made a Difference? Help Her Get the Recognition She Deserves

(ARA) - Thanks to Paula “P.K.” Beville of Marietta, Ga., nursing home patients in her hometown are no longer feeling alone and forgotten -- they are living their dreams. Maria Palestini Bye of Voorhees, N.J., has found a way to make sure teenagers in her community who are dealing with life-threatening diseases can find the comfort they need. And Denise Resnik started up a desperately needed research and resource center in Phoenix to help families in need of answers about autism.

Paula, Maria and Denise come from very different backgrounds but they have a lot in common. In addition to their deep passion for helping others and a commitment to their communities, this past October, they, along with four other outstanding women, were named winners of the first annual Women of Worth contest sponsored by L’Oréal Paris.

“I applaud all our fabulous women who are inspiring volunteers and outstanding achievers who have an inspiring heart for making differences in their communities. The four simple words ‘Because I’m Worth It’ continue to serve as a galvanizing and unifying force for the L’Oréal Paris community,” said Carol J. Hamilton, President, L’Oréal Paris.

If you know someone who is deserving of recognition for their ucommitment to volunteer work, the call for entries for the 2nd annual Women of Worth award has just gotten underway. From now until May 24, 2007, nominations are being accepted at the Web site: www.womenofworth.com. An elite panel of judges will select the 13 finalists, and America will have the opportunity to vote for one national honoree after reviewing their online profiles this fall. Monetary donations will be awarded to the charity of choice of the finalists.

If you’ve always wanted to get involved, but don’t feel you’re yet among the caliber of people deserving of recognition, there’s no better time than the present to make the commitment. You can show your worth by being active in your community. Join a local nonprofit organization, set up a charitable fund, or even start your own community initiative. To learn more about the L’Oréal Women of Worth Program, how to become a local volunteer or to nominate someone outstanding you can visit www.womenofworth.com.

If you are looking for some advice on how to get involved as a volunteer in your local community, here are some tips from the Points of Light Foundation, L’Oréal Paris' nonprofit partner in executing the Women of Worth program, to get you started:

1. Research the causes and issues important to you.

Look for a group centered around issues you feel strongly about. You might already be giving money to one of these organizations, and that might be a good place to begin your volunteer experience.

2. Consider the skills you have to offer.

If you enjoy outdoor work, have a knack for teaching, or just enjoy interacting with people you may want to look for volunteer work that incorporates these aspects of your personality. Many positions require a volunteer who has previous familiarity with certain equipment like computers, or who possesses specific skills, such as an ability in athletics or communications.

3. Try something new.

Perhaps you would like to learn a new skill or gain exposure to a new situation. Consider a volunteer opportunity where you'll learn something new.

4. Combine your goals.

Look for volunteer opportunities that can also help you achieve your other goals. For example, if you want to lose a few extra pounds, pick an active volunteer opportunity such as cleaning a park or working with kids.

5. Don't over commit your schedule.

Understand how volunteering can fit comfortably within your busy schedule. Spend time selecting a cause that will allow you to continue to maintain a strong balance between work, family, and home.

Courtesy of ARAcontent