For Raven Jaynea Williams, volunteering is more than a way to give back. It’s a way to grow, lead and inspire. A Memphis native and current University of Memphis senior, Williams has turned service into a meaningful part of her college experience.
Growing up in Frayser gave Williams a perspective on the issues that lower-income families face every day. She credits her close-knit family and especially her parents with leading by example to help those in need and work together for the good of the community.
“They have modeled that all throughout my childhood, and that’s why I want to continue to be there for people. They taught me empathy and the ability to look outside of my perspective and stay grounded. I can really thank them for teaching me all of those skills and rooting that within me.”
Williams’ formal introduction to volunteering began as a high school requirement but quickly became a calling. “Even though it started as something I had to do, it became a part of who I am,” she reflects. That early experience taught her that even small acts of service can create meaningful change.
Williams discovered the Civic Engagement Board through the UofM Center for Service Learning and Volunteerism. She now serves as its director, connecting students with meaningful volunteer opportunities across the city and coordinating projects that directly impact those in need, including food drives, youth mentorship and community support initiatives.
“Through volunteering with Catholic Charities, I saw firsthand how people struggle to access basic needs,” she says. “It inspired me to find ways to make a difference, whether through food drives or creating food boxes for the community.”
These volunteer experiences have played a profound role in Williams’ leadership and personal development.
“Coordinating monthly service events was demanding, but it helped increase student involvement and strengthened my organizational and communication skills,” she notes.
These skills have also informed her professional career goals as she prepares to transition from student to alum.
“Volunteering isn’t just about showing up. It’s about advocating for those without a voice and making a real difference.”
– Raven Williams
“Volunteering has influenced my life and career heavily. It showed me that I really love service-oriented work. I’m majoring in psychology, and I would love to be a child psychologist. The skills that I learned from volunteering, like being empathetic, being patient, having advocacy for the communities that don’t have a voice to do so, especially if I’m in a position where I can try to make some type of positive difference, are amazing,” she said.
“I feel like volunteering has also helped me with my communication skills. I know with my career, that’s going to be very important.” Through this outreach, Williams is helping fellow students see the tangible difference just one person can make for those around them.
For Williams, the impact of service extends far beyond individual projects. “Volunteering isn’t just about showing up. It’s about advocating for those without a voice and making a real difference,” she emphasizes. By contributing their time and talents, students like Williams build a stronger, kinder community.
Don’t know where to start? Williams advises finding opportunities that align with your passions and starting small. With so many different avenues for volunteering, it can easily become overwhelming.
Starting out by helping a friend, mentoring a student or volunteering for events is a manageable way to start.
“Make sure you’re very passionate about it and be a part of that shared vision and be a part of the positive change that our community needs,” Williams explained. “We need so many hands on deck to continue to make our community and the world a better place. So just start small. We all start somewhere.”
The University of Memphis encourages all students, faculty and community members to get involved. Opportunities range from food and clothing drives to tutoring programs and professional mentoring initiatives.
“If you are trying to just find people to network with, connect with or if you need any help starting, reach out to the Civic Engagement Board. We are always looking for partners and non-profit organizations to branch out and serve with,” Williams explained. “Another way to get involved within a community off campus is to check out Volunteer Odyssey. That’s a great way to find different service opportunities around Memphis. They have thousands!”
To find out how you can volunteer and make a difference, email: service@memphis.edu.
