Jen’s Post-Its: The philanthropy of volunteers

Jennifer Moulton-Post, a longtime volunteer and recent transplant to Washington, shares her “post-it notes” as she explores the Smithsonian and the opportunities presented by her new community.

phi·lan·thro·py  \ fə-ˈlan(t)-thrə-pē \ noun
1: goodwill to fellow members of the human race; especially : active effort to promote human welfare

“Giving in America” is an ongoing exhibition at the National Museum of American History, part of the museum’s Philanthropy Initiative. (Photo by Jennifer Moulton-Post)

As Smithsonian volunteers, we are all familiar with the idea of philanthropy and we each have our own reasons for spending our time in the “active effort to promote human welfare.”  The American History Museum’s new exhibition on philanthropy, “Giving in America,” is a terrific snapshot into the ways in which people are donating their time and money.

Located on the second floor, it’s definitely a must see!  Whether it be at a museum, a larger non-profit like the American Red Cross, or smaller organizations focused on the needs of their communities, all philanthropy is worthwhile.

Information desk volunteers Gloria Seeling, left, and Beth Meader. (Photo by Kris Hamilton)

And speaking of people donating time—Meet Gloria Seeling and Beth Meader! It was a joy to meet these two wonderful women and hear about their experiences as Smithsonian volunteers. As Visitor Information Specialists at the American History Information Desk, they oversee one of the busiest desks in one of the businest museums on the Mall.  Gloria has been volunteering with the Smithsonian for 10 years and Beth has three years under her belt. “I love just getting lost in the museum,” Beth says. “It feels like home.”

We are lucky to have such dedicated volunteers and I look forward to meeting more of my colleagues as I explore the Smithsonian.

Beth Meader. left, and Gloria Seeling, assist visitors to one of the busiest Smithsonian museums. (Photo by Kris Hamilton)

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