Every long-term volunteering journey begins with a spark - a reason, a feeling, or a cause that drives you for this experience. Capturing your spark in words gives you clarity and direction, so when you face challenges, this will remind you why you started. In a way your Spark Statement becomes a personal compass. There is no right or wrong way to write your Spark Statement. It’s about honesty, not perfection.
What you will need:
- Paper (notebook) and a pen
- If doing it digitally - computer or phone
Instructions:
1. Find a quiet place where you can write or record without interruptions.
2. Take a few breaths and bring to mind the issue that feels most important to you.
3. Imagine what excites you, what angers you, or what you feel called to.
4. Use the template below to create your spark statement. Write freely, honestly, and from the heart.
5. Once finished, read it out loud. Notice if it feels alive and authentic. If not, adjust until it truly reflects your spark.
I want to contribute to: _____________________________.
Because I feel connected to it when: _____________________.
This aligns with my values of: ______________, ______________, and ______________.
In my project, I’d be excited to: ______________, and I hope to learn ________________.
6. Reflect in your journal:
- Does this statement capture my real spark, or what I think others want to hear?
- Which part of my spark feels strongest right now?
- How do I feel when I read my statement out loud?
- How could it remind me of my motivation if I face difficulties during volunteering?
Guidance for mentors/facilitators:
- After silent writing you can invite the volunteer(s) to talk about their answers instead of writing. Mirror back the words/phrases that sounded most alive.
- Nature walk & symbol option. Suggest a short walk in nature to reflect silently. Ask them to find a natural object (leaf, stone, branch) that represents their spark. Discuss what the symbol means to them.
- Land Art Expression option. Encourage creating a small artwork from natural materials (sticks, stones, flowers). Ask what each element represents and the story it tells.Take a photo as a reminder.
- Support reflection with questions:
- Which part of your Spark Statement feels strongest?
- What emotions come up when you connect with your spark?
- How does your spark connect to a bigger picture (life, community, world)?