To those in the VolunteerMark network, I would like to introduce myself. My name is Sean O’Malley and though I am new at VolunteerMark, I am not new to the world of volunteering.

I grew up in North Platte, a small railroad town in western Nebraska. The eldest of three kids, I was taught to be a loving example to my younger siblings and put others before myself.

Growing up, we often are molded by the culmination of those small moments, which make us into the people we are today. I am no exception. As I grew up, my parents preached not by words, but by example. They allowed me to complain, grumble and make mistakes, as long as the work got done. Eventually actions became thoughts and over time, my thoughts became me.

There was no single moment that defines why I give back, but my move to Kansas City to attend Rockhurst University played an enormous role in my faith and service development. Rockhurst gave me a platform to exercise my passion for volunteerism.

The school has offered me chances to help those less fortunate both in Kansas City and around the world. It has taught me that love in action is the most important thing of all, whether you are helping those right next door, or in a remote village in a third-world country.

If I could narrow down why I give back into one word, it would be love. My parents’ wisdom showed me how to love with action and purpose. Rockhurst then gave me the opportunity to love all those around me with both understanding and perspective.

These factors have shaped me into the man I am today, and I feel as if I am just getting started.