This week looked a little different from the first two. I came down quite sick and spent a few days working at a reduced pace, and with today off for Juneteenth, it was a quieter week overall. Still, there was plenty worth reflecting on.

One thing I appreciated was how accommodating the team was when I got sick. Being able to hop on meetings and keep things moving from home, rather than losing the days entirely, is one of the real advantages of remote work, and I’m grateful Besa makes that an option.

I got a closer look at how Besa structures the onboarding process for new partner organizations, sitting in on meetings that walk through what that relationship looks like from the very first conversation. I also got to post actual volunteer shifts directly to the platform for Dress for Success Columbus, a nonprofit that helps unemployed and underemployed women achieve economic independence through career development programs, professional attire, and other support services. It was exciting knowing that real volunteers will be signing up for an opportunity I built and posted myself.

I also spent more time on the research side of my project, digging into how organizations around the country approach volunteer engagement and fill rates, and cross-referencing those practices with what current research suggests is most effective. I’m starting to see the shape of an actual proposal come together, which is a good feeling after weeks of gathering information.

The highlight of the week, even in a lighter one, was helping put on a Juneteenth celebration at the Boys & Girls Club for more than 120 kids. Between painting, face painting, music and dancing, a photo booth, cup decorating with edible glitter, and what felt like an endless supply of candy and cookies, it was about as much fun as a volunteer shift can be. It was a nice reminder that even a slower week can end on a high note.