My Experience Volunteering at Clay Art Center by Carol Chevlowe

Studies show that happiness is one of the primary benefits of volunteering - the more we give, the happier we feel. In my own experience, this is so true.

I have been volunteering at Clay Art Center for more than 15 years, in addition to serving in various leadership positions on committees and on the Board. There is no question that spending time at CAC and becoming part of this special community has added tremendous joy to my life. And, after 15 years, I would have never imagined that the last two years would have been the most important and rewarding of all of them.

In the spring of 2020, I closed a business and had to learn to retire. Without the CAC community, my transition to retired life would have been infinitely more difficult. Volunteering at CAC gave me purpose, and it was instrumental to my well-being during this time in my life. I met new people, engaged in interesting conversations, learned new skills, and felt a true sense of belonging. The CAC community was here for me during an important time in my life, and volunteering has made that possible.

Whether you are a student, artist, teacher, friend of CAC, or someone new to us, now is the time to lend your time and energy and become part of this special community. Friendships formed at the studio move beyond our physical space. From museum outings and bike rides and hikes, to volunteering together for Empty Bowls, we have made personal connections that will last a lifetime.

Through my volunteer work at CAC, I have experienced so much. I learned to unload a kiln; learned about glazes from August, our studio manager, and then shared my new knowledge with students waiting patiently for their glazed pieces to appear on the shelves. I assisted Jessica with data entry for our soon to launch new online credit log system for students. I helped Regina carefully pack pieces for shipping. And I have spent time cleaning and organizing the studio, which is something I love to do - as all who know me know!

There are so many ways you can lend a hand at CAC, and you do not need to be a ceramic artist to help out. The list of opportunities can be found on our new Volunteer page on our website. Are you interested in photography? We can use your support taking photos of work for the shop. Do you have graphic design skills to help us make flyers and brochures? Would you like to help with a children’s class or clay party? The list is endless!

I hope you’ll join me in giving back to a local non-profit that needs our help. I promise you that you will be happy that you did!

I look forward to seeing you at Clay Art Center. Feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions about how to get involved.

Carol Chevlowe

Clay Art Center Board President