What COR Taught Me About Real Connection
Six years ago, I joined COR with the simple goal of networking within Columbia’s professional community. At first, I thought it was just about expanding my contacts, but the more involved I became, the more I realized that COR had so much more to offer. It wasn’t long before the Volunteer Action Team caught my attention and I knew I wanted to be a part of it. Organizing and providing volunteer opportunities to fellow members was something that resonated with me. One of my earliest memories was volunteering at Camp Cole, working alongside other members, and feeling a genuine connection. It wasn’t just about the work; it was about being in a space where we could connect in ways that went beyond the typical professional settings. I felt comfortable, at ease, and for the first time, I got to truly know the people around me.
COR events, whether it’s focused on networking or volunteering, offer members the chance to build both professional and personal connections. I’ve made some great friends through COR, and I feel more connected to my community because of it. I know others who’ve met at COR events and stayed in touch, exploring new restaurants together due to a shared love of food. It’s a small example, but it shows how people from different backgrounds can find common ground and create lasting relationships through COR.
The Volunteer Action Team is at the heart of this connection. It’s not just about organizing volunteer projects; it’s about bringing members together in meaningful ways. We identify projects based on member suggestions, inquiries we receive, and partnerships with local organizations that align with COR’s mission to support the community. Each project is carefully considered to ensure it will make a real impact. A perfect example is our annual Camp Cole project, where COR members help prepare the grounds before summer camps begin. From yard work to painting and organizing the library, these tasks not only benefit the camp but also bring our members closer as they work side by side.
COR’s reach extends across multiple communities in the Columbia area, allowing us to make a real difference throughout the region. Over the years, I’ve seen both COR and the Volunteer Action Team grow, and I’m excited about the direction we’re heading. The way our team collaborates to ensure events and volunteer opportunities are accessible to members is truly inspiring. Hearing organizations praise COR for its impact is incredibly rewarding, and I’m eager to continue fostering these relationships with organizations across the community. COR’s openness to feedback, its constant effort to meet the needs of both members and the community, is what makes it special. And I don’t see that commitment to improvement changing anytime soon.
