Dear VAN Members,

Happy July to you! We hope this message finds you enjoying the summer season here in Central Ohio and gearing up for our next Professional Development session next Thursday, July 17th! 

Hello VAN Members and Friends,

As we step into July, I want to take a moment to acknowledge that many of us may be feeling the weight of our world and our country’s current political climate. It is a time that calls for deep reflection, empathy, and action. If you’re feeling weary, know that you are not alone—and that there is hope.

The work we do every day to strengthen our communities, support our neighbors, and empower volunteers is exactly the kind of energy that can change hearts and minds. It is in these moments of uncertainty that our shared commitment to service becomes even more vital. By showing up for one another and creating spaces of belonging and care, we help pave the way to a better, more compassionate world.

As Nelson Mandela so beautifully said:

“For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.”

Let us remember that our work isn’t just about today—it’s about building the foundation for a freer, more peaceful tomorrow.

I also want to warmly invite you to this month’s VAN meeting:

Date: Thursday, July 17th
Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Location: Habitat for Humanity–MidOhio Family and Program Center
6665 Busch Blvd, Columbus, OH 43229

This month’s professional development session will feature a special panel discussion on the Certified in Volunteer Administration (CVA) Initial Certification. If you’re considering taking this next step in your professional journey, or want to learn more about the process, you won’t want to miss it.

Thank you for everything you do. Your leadership, compassion, and dedication are the heart of this network. Let’s keep moving forward together, with hope.

In solidarity,

Leachuin
President, Volunteer Administrators’ Network (VAN)

 

• Date:  Thursday, July 17, 2025
• Time: 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
• Location: Habitat for Humanity-MidOhio Family and Program Center-6665 Busch Blvd., Columbus, OH 43229
• Agenda: The morning session begins at 9 a.m. with a light breakfast, coffee, and a professional development presentation focused on the Certified Volunteer Administrator (CVA) process. It will feature a panel of VAN members who currently hold their CVA certification. The session will wrap up between 10:15 and 10:30 a.m., followed by time for questions and networking.
• Topic:  Certified Volunteer Administrator Panel

JOB POSTINGS:

Our website is full of job listings in central Ohio! If you're a VAN Central Ohio member looking for a position working with volunteers, you can click here to access the page. There are many local openings including positions at the Ohio Organizing Collaborative, Crossroads Church, COSI and MORE! Postings are updated throughout the month, so log in and check back often!

Need to renew your VAN Membership or know someone who might be interested in joining VAN? Visit us online at vancentralohio.org!