During my youth, I was actively involved in scouting for the simple reason that it was fun. However, unbeknownst to me at the time, scouting was much more than just about having fun because it instilled in me the values that I live by to this day. The Boy Scout oath includes the phrase "to help other people at all times", and one of the twelve points of the Scout Law is "helpful"; at first, these were just words but over time these ideals become part of me. The fun part was camping but most of my scouting time was dedicated to learning (I still know my knots) and advancement. Leadership skills were developed and honed as I advanced through the ranks; advancement always required participating in service projects. Boy Scouts ended when I turned 18 but scouting still lives within me so it is only natural that a portion of my life is still dedicated to service.

Like many parents, I have volunteered with organizations related to my children’s activities; for me it was mainly coaching sports and involvement with Boy Scouts as an adult leader. However, the vast majority of my service as an adult has been dedicated to my career by serving as a member leader (aka volunteer) within ASQ. I will be honest: my initial reason for getting involved with a professional society was purely selfish. I wanted to earn recertification units in order to maintain my professional certifications (Certified Quality Engineer, Certified Quality manger, etc.). But as time passed and my involvement grew, I felt the need to give back to the quality community because the quality profession has been very good to me.

I have been asked by family and friends "Why do you spend so much of your time volunteering?" so I explain how I have benefitted as much or more than the people I serve. One example is all the experience I gained as the Chair of the ASQ Inspection Division. Leading the Inspection Division is analogous to running a small business. Members are "customers", member leaders are "employees", the services provided are the result of the many internal processes, and the financial assets you manage are nearly six figures. As the division chair, I had ultimate responsible for coordinating the various activities that successfully executed the division’s business plan. Execution of the business plan was dependent upon the other member leaders who graciously dedicate their time to selflessly serve; the Inspection Division members and I are truly indebted to them.

Besides the business aspect, serving as the Inspection Division Chair helped me further develop my people management skills. Leading a volunteer organization is a significantly different role than the management positions I have had in my professional career. Member leaders serve for a variety of reasons, however, salary is not a motivator and the fear of job loss does not exist. Simply put, leading volunteers solely requires all "carrot" and no "stick." I learned that volunteers seek guidance and a clear vision so that their time, talents and efforts are not wasted. My success for motivating member leaders was accomplished by providing meaningful tasks and projects, through praise and appreciation, and by supplying ample recognition. In return, I helped member leaders develop and enhance their skill set through mentoring, formal educational courses, and on-the-volunteer-job training.

It has been said that placing the needs of others before your own is an important step on the journey of self-discovery. I have found this to be true. I believe that one of the greatest things a human being can do is to serve others. The truest form of selfless service is when we give without wanting anything in return. That is the spirit in which we should give. This means that we do not broadcast to others what we do to receive adulation, praise, power, or name and fame. However, what I have discovered is that what we do not seek still finds us because I have been showered with thanks, praise and recognition throughout the years. While I did not seek adulation or praise, I greatly appreciated when it was provided.

The intent of this column is not to recruit ASQ member leaders but rather to inspire the reader to find a meaningful way to serve others. The investment of a few hours a month of one’s time will go a long way to those that they serve and will also intrinsically benefit themselves. I challenge the reader to find something that they are passionate about, get involved, and to be a good Scout.