From the President-Elect: Vital Human Chains

If you have been paying attention to the news over the past couple of months, I am sure you have been as concerned as I with the astonishing number of devastating natural disasters and acts of violence taking place all around the world. I have felt helpless as each event has stacked one upon the other. One thing that has struck me with each successive event is the degree of humanity and heroism that I have witnessed from countless people who have come together to help each other. It has been inspiring to witness true humanity emerging in crisis situations. We have seen the images of people reaching out and even risking their lives to provide for others in need. People of all races, religions, ages, abilities and economic status have joined together in a common cause, to preserve human life.
 
One image has stood out to me above all others. On more than one occasion, the media has reported individuals, even perfect strangers, joining together to form a human chain to save the lives of others. As I have pondered the topic of the USCA newsletter this month, “Beyond Your Building: Counselors in the Community,” I have realized that school counselors form human chains of service to students on a daily basis and these life-saving efforts reach well beyond their buildings. Counselors play an integral role in the chain of support offered to students along with other educators, parents, community members and partners, and other students. Sometimes we are the first link to the chain, but we definitely can’t do it alone.
 
I hope this month’s issue will provide some ideas about how we can lengthen our chain of influence within our communities. I have seen countless examples of Utah counselors making significant contributions in their communities and I applaud every action that counselors are taking to make a difference. Counselors do make a difference and we are leaders in our community. Keep up the good work!
 
To find service opportunities in Utah, here are some good resources:

• http://211utah.org/ (United Way)
• https://heritage.utah.gov/userveutah/find-volunteer-opportunities
• http://slco.org/volunteer/
• http://www.redcross.org/local/utah
• https://www.volunteermatch.org/
• http://www.youthlinc.org/localservicedirectory/index.php