Extra Hands Volunteer Profile: Margot Danis

by Meredith Boggess

Because of an increasing emphasis on community service as part of a well-rounded curriculum, many young adults find their philanthropic niche during their high school years. That was the case with Margot Danis, a recent graduate of John Burroughs and active volunteer with Extra Hands for ALS, an organization that pairs student volunteers and adult mentors with families affected by ALS. “I got involved sophomore year after being inspired by my sister, who was active in the organization through its Burroughs chapter,” explains Danis.

A demanding theater rehearsal schedule prohibited Danis from making the normal weekly commitment, so she became very involved in the organization’s Project Days, which sends groups of students into homes on the weekends to complete larger home improvement projects such as painting or yard work. “We do anything and everything that needs to be done, from laundry, yard work, dishes or just playing with the kids,” says Danis.

Despite her other obligations, she made staying involved with Extra Hands a priority. “It’s such a first-hand experience,” she says. “Unlike organizing a bake sale or a canned food drive, you get to see in a very personal way how your efforts improve the lives of those affected by this devastating disease.” Danis says it’s easy for she and her friends to give up an hour or two on a Saturday morning. “When you see what a big difference it makes in the lives of the people you’re helping, all of a sudden, the time commitment becomes something you look forward to rather than seeing it as a sacrifice,” she says.

Danis explains that the nature of ALS makes their efforts even more important. “It can be very emotional. We helped out a family with young kids. The father wasn’t even 40, and he couldn’t talk or move,” she recalls. “There is no degenerative effect on the mind��”you still think clearly but are trapped in your own failing body. They are glad we help but frustrated they can’t do these things for themselves.”

During her college application process, Danis realized how much her experience with the nonprofit had inspired her. “With Extra Hands, every time you volunteer, you get the feeling of having done something that mattered.”

"It’s such a first-hand experience..."