Volunteering allows individuals to make a positive impact on the lives of others. At the National Runaway Safeline (NRS), our volunteers play a crucial role in supporting youth and families in crisis. This month, we are proud to spotlight Brooke, our Volunteer of the Month, who embodies compassion and selflessness.  

Brooke began volunteering in the NRS crisis center around two years ago. She has always enjoyed volunteering, having been exposed to opportunities at a young age. During the pandemic, Brooke wanted to channel her energy into something both productive and purposeful. She was searching for a remote volunteer option and was drawn to NRS’s commitment to helping youth. 

Brooke says she loves everything about volunteering at NRS; she truly cherishes her interactions with the youth who reach out for help and her fellow volunteers. Her experiences at NRS have taught her that one cannot judge someone based on what they show on the outside. She realizes that empathy is key to understanding the depth of people’s experiences and she tries to have an open heart.  

Brooke’s dedication to service is not limited to her time at NRS. She regularly volunteers at local shelters and food banks. And during college, Brooke was a member of a service fraternity and served as the service chair where she connected people to volunteer opportunities that resonated with them.  

Brooke is a market research analyst in Chicago, and hopes to pursue an MBA in marketing analytics, after she gets married in April of 2024.  

When not working or volunteering, Brooke reads as many as 30 books a year and particularly enjoys thrillers and mystery novels. She also likes to bake, experiment with art projects, and play board games with friends.  

Brooke’s experience at NRS is an example of how one person can make an impact on the lives of others. Want to learn more about NRS’s volunteer opportunities? Visit 1800RUNAWAY.org/volunteer.