'I'm glad my time and dedication made a difference'

Craig Shapiro, 30, Riverview

GOAL: To help people who need it the most by volunteering my time for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

WHY I DID IT: This will be my third year volunteering for the Mid Florida Chapter's MS 150 Citrus Bike Tour along with MS walk events throughout central Florida. It started back in 2008, when I was asked to participate as an amateur radio operator providing route communications for the bike ride. I had just become a HAM operator and joined my local club, the Clearwater Amateur Radio Society (CARS). One of the members, Paul Toth, was on the planning committee of the 2008 MS 150 Citrus Tour. He asked the club for volunteers at one of our club meetings. I agreed to volunteer, not knowing exactly what I was getting myself into. Being a new HAM with very little experience on the air, I knew this would be challenging and I looked forward to it.

Then, about a month before the ride, Doris Lill, an MS staff member, asked if I would drive a supply truck for the event. I jumped at the opportunity.

The experience was an educational one; I had no idea what MS was or how it affected people. I quickly learned. I was lucky enough to meet some MS patients, and it was truly inspirational to see how they could have such a positive outlook with such a terrible disease. I also enjoyed working with the society's staff. They were very helpful and accommodating. I made a lot of friends that weekend and I will always remember the experience.

The event went smoothly, but I did see a need for improvement. During the after-party, I asked if I could be more involved with planning the next event. A few months later, I was asked to join the planning committee. I became the logistics and supply truck coordinator for the 2009 ride.

HOW I DID IT: I took the role very seriously and dedicated many hours to making the ride run as smoothly as possible. I took a few days off of work so I could really focus on the event. I also came up with some changes that made sense logistically and saved thousands of dollars, allowing the money to go where it is most needed.

GOING THE DISTANCE: I'm glad my time and dedication made a difference. Volunteering in this position also gave me the opportunity to expand my life experience. The skills I learned and the network I developed will pay dividends for years to come. I will continue to volunteer in this capacity as long as the society wants me to.

BEST ADVICE: Get out and volunteer; it will change your life and may change someone else's too!

For more information about the Mid Florida Chapter of the National MS Society, go to www.nationalmssociety.org and click on Find A Chapter.