Gary spent over a decade working in IT in San Francisco before accepting what was meant to be a two-year assignment in Geneva, which has now turned into 40 years (not a bad place to stay!). After retiring, he became involved with Serve the City and has since enjoyed a wonderful life working alongside many dedicated volunteers to help others.
Serve the City Geneva has been making a difference since 2010, inspired by the Serve the City International movement that began in Brussels in 2005. The Geneva chapter brings together volunteers eager to mobilise others by partnering with existing organisations that already serve marginalised communities. Their mission is simple yet powerful: to connect people who want to serve with those who need it most.
What inspired you to volunteer with Serve the City Geneva?
I was first motivated by a very good friend of mine who had been the church youth leader for my children. After being ordained, he went to Brussels and started a church, which quickly developed into the service organization Serve the City Brussels.
About ten years later, during a visit to Geneva, he encouraged twelve of us to create a Geneva service team. It began with great energy and enthusiasm and has continued to grow. Over the past fourteen years, we have hosted more than 6,000 volunteers and now have a team of just over 3,000 members.
I have always been drawn to helping others, whether by assisting friends with moving, painting, or home repairs, or supporting single mothers with gardening tasks. Through Serve the City, however, I was introduced to many more people in need within the community, connecting with them through a variety of service organisations across Geneva.
Can you share a memorable moment or experience from your volunteering?
There have been many memorable moments over the years, but I must say that the city of Geneva hosts two absolutely incredible events each year that never fail to inspire me. One of them is called Samedi du Partage, during which more than 90 stores across Geneva invite us to encourage shoppers to contribute items for those in need.
Over the course of this two-day event, the generosity of Geneva’s residents results in more than 30 tons of food and hygiene products being donated, enough to help feed over 2,000 people per day for six months! I’m always delighted that we can contribute to this effort, bringing together over 100 volunteers to support the event.
How has volunteering impacted you personally or changed your perspective?
Throughout my life, I had very little contact with people who were seriously handicapped. One of our project teams organised a visit to a group called Clair Bois, which cares for severely handicapped youth and adults. During my first visit to one of their events, I was deeply moved by the love and joy we received simply through our presence. I can truly say that this experience has been one of the most special and meaningful moments in my journey of serving others.
What would you say to someone considering volunteering with Serve the City Geneva?
Even the smallest act of kindness can mean a great deal, especially to those who are simply struggling to get through life.
Link- Serve the city of Geneva