Erica Luna
Dear TOHP community,
My name is Kristin Esber, the Head of Volunteer Programs at TheOneHourProject (TOHP). By opening this letter, you are already connecting with our mission by subscribing to our monthly newsletter. Whether you’re a current volunteer or exploring ways to support us, I’m truly grateful that you are taking the time to read this message.
This season of love has inspired me to reminisce about why I am passionate about what I do for TOHP. Long before I began matching volunteers with organizations that needed their talents, I worked as a teacher. My connection to TOHP started through a family friend who introduced me to their cause. Like you, I began as a volunteer—as a proctor for BINHI’s literacy initiative. For someone who’s loved volunteering since college, joining BINHI through TOHP is a chance to use my experience and realize a dream—to promote literacy among young children in the Philippines.
Fast forward to 2023, I stepped into the job as Volunteer Coordinator in TOHP and, eventually, as Head of Volunteer Programs. It’s a role that I accepted because I wanted to help fellow volunteers like me.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned so far is that managing volunteers is as diverse and dynamic as the volunteers themselves. Everyone has unique schedules, motivations, and backgrounds. But the beauty of being part of TOHP is how we welcome diversity. As you have seen on TheOneHourProject website, we offer a variety of opportunities, ensuring there’s a place for everyone to contribute meaningfully, regardless of their skill set or time availability.
Speaking of meaningful contributions, let me share two examples that continue to inspire me. TOHP volunteers have played a critical role in advancing BINHI’s advocacy. Through our efforts, countless students have been tested and supported. In Singapore, our Bagus consultation volunteers have been instrumental in assisting start-ups. These stories demonstrate the impact we can create when we come together, even virtually.
Balancing this role with my work as a private tutor and other commitments has its challenges. It can be overwhelming at times, especially when it comes to finding and retaining committed volunteers. But the satisfaction of seeing a project through to completion—a video, a social media campaign, or a successful consultation—reminds me of why I started in the first place.
I love working with TOHP because we champion virtual volunteering. Not everyone has the flexibility to be on-site, and that’s okay. Through TOHP, one can make a difference from the comfort of their home, or while working in a cafe. From orientation to regular check-ins and feedback, our team at TOHP tries to ensure that every volunteer feels valued. Our digital badges are just one of the ways we celebrate their work.
If you are someone who wants to volunteer, don’t overthink it. We at TOHP are here to guide you as you connect with meaningful ways to serve.
And to our current volunteers, thank you. Your contribution is the backbone of TOHP and our partners. You’re proof that even an hour of service can be a powerful act of love for our community.
My vision is to inspire a world where altruism is second nature to us all. And through our combined effort and time, we continue to spread volunteerism—the purest form of love, expressed in action.
Once again, thank you for believing in the power of one hour to make real change possible.
Yours in love and service,
Kristin