The two years I spent as an AmeriCorps Volunteer in Service to America were two of the best years of my life. VISTA is a national service program, similar to the Peace Corps but based in the United States. I recently became an AmeriCorps alumna, but volunteerism will forever remain an important part of my life.

While working at my placement at the Volunteer Center of Story County, I had the opportunity to work with The 10,000 Hours Show, a unique volunteer recruitment and recognition program. Young people volunteer for 10 hours in the Ames/Story County community to help fill needs and assist non-profit organizations, and then are rewarded with a concert attended only by these volunteers. I participated the past two years and felt a great feeling of solidarity with other volunteers at the concert.

With poverty rates rising, more people relying on food pantries and services and more non-profits in need of volunteers, we have the opportunity to make great strides in our own community.

From 5–9 p.m. Wednesday in the Campanile Room of the Memorial Union, you will have the opportunity to explore what needs are out there at a volunteer fair co-hosted by The 10,000 Hours Show and the Volunteer Center of Story County.

I think you’ll find 10 hours is nothing when you know you are making a huge difference in someone’s life.

Amanda Martin is an AmeriCorps VISTA alumna.