A legislative official found relief from the pressure of his government position by volunteering one night a week in a capacity totally different from his daily responsibilities -- he volunteered at a church-sponsored coffee house serving the disadvantaged. Though he arrived at the coffee house tired from the day's demands, the official left refreshed and energized, knowing he had made a valuable contribution.

A communications professional from the mortgage industry was recruited to serve on nonprofit community development boards working on housing issues for the aged. Working with volunteers more diverse in age and experiences than those in her corporate environment, she developed new skills in communication, facilitation and motivation. The experience taught her she could transfer her valuable corporate skills into new work situations and speak with a new voice in an environment that reflected her personal values and interests.

In search of spiritual growth opportunities, a writer and editor discovered a fledgling assn offering materials and experiential workshops that met her needs. Volunteer activities with the assn displayed her organizational skills and she was offered a position as the organization's part time consultant/exec director.

These busy professionals added a new balance and richness to their work/life through volunteerism. They encouraged other busy professionals to contact the nonprofit institution that speaks to their individual interests and experience for themselves the enriching rewards of volunteer service.

Redstrom-Plourd is a partner in Springboard!, an exec/career coaching firm in VA. 540/636-3657 or www.springboardcoaching.org.