Blue Crew Volunteer Leaders: Tajuana Brooks-Lane

Tajuana Brooks-Lane (right) with fellow Blue Crew volunteer Amanda Blumenthal.

Have you ever thought about volunteering, but something — shyness, lack of time, not knowing where to start — held you back? Read on for inspiration from Blue Crew Advisory Board member Tajuana Brooks-Lane, whose passion for volunteering will help you get in the game of giving back.

What made you want to join the Blue Crew Advisory Board?

The Blue Crew and I share the same passion for giving back to the community. The advisory board plays a tremendous role in carrying out the Independence Blue Cross mission, which is dear to my heart. It was only natural for me to want to be a part of the team that is the pulse of the organization’s mission.

Is there a particular organization or project that is meaningful to you? If so, why?

It is so hard to choose! I can’t choose. Honestly, all of the organizations and projects mean a great deal to me. A while back I was reflecting on this very topic. I kept going back and forth on which was the most meaningful. It was then that I realized how special they all are.

What first made you get involved in volunteering?

Growing up, my mother always made sure we gave back to our community. Volunteering is a part of my core. It is my belief that if you have time to give, give of your time. It’s just that simple.

How does volunteering impact the organization or the people it serves?

Unfortunately, hunger, homelessness, and health challenges are just a few of concerns that many of our neighbors face daily. The organizations we volunteer with provide support to help reduce the impact felt as a result of these trials. Providing fresh vegetables, schools supplies, shelter, and clothing are just some of the various services these organizations provide. Many of them operate and depend primarily on the support of volunteers. Without their services and the support of volunteers, so many needs in our community would go unmet.

What is your advice for people who are interested in starting to volunteer?

Just do it. Volunteering is one of the best gifts one can give to their community. Just to put a smile on the face of someone in need is tremendously rewarding. Giving of your time to show love, support, empathy, and kindness is always a good thing.

Tajuana’s Top Ten

Click on each organization to learn more about their volunteer needs.

We’re profiling members of the advisory board for our Independence Blue Cross (Independence) Corporate Volunteer Program — the Blue Crew. Blue Crew advisory board members lead individual projects, promote volunteerism, and evaluate and select the organizations, projects, and events our Blue Crew supports. Know an organization or a local event that could use enthusiastic volunteers? Contact the Blue Crew.