2023 Starry Nights at Shelby Farms Park

It was freezing!

As cold as it was fun! (Layer up)

My service at Shelby Farms Park during Starry Nights benefitted members of the broader community because I worked on the biggest fundraising event of the year, one which helps to keep Shelby Farms open for community members from all around Memphis and surrounding areas.
My service was people/car facing, as I directed traffic for the event. I served people who came to Starry Nights at Shelby Farms, so it was a lot of families from all different populations. A lot of people were excited to be there and seemed cheerful to wave back at me as they went through the park.
I learned a lot in three days about what it takes to keep the park running and open for all to enjoy, and I also got to witness just how many people benefit from the events Shelby Farms hosts.
I think personally my service made me take on a new perspective for volunteering in general. It made me more grateful for the opportunity to provide such a great experience for others.
During my service, I worked with a team but spread out in different areas of the park. Sometimes, I had a partner at my station, sometimes I didn't. When I had people with me, it made the job easier because I had someone to talk to or cover me if I needed to use the restroom. It was cool to see so many other people come out to volunteer.
I plan to continue volunteering with this organization, maybe even some more with Starry Nights, because they are a great group to work with and I love all that provide for my community. I'll definitely be back.