Mary Ciconte, Lou’s Crew Volunteer Member
Volunteers are the lifeblood of any organization. At ALS United Illinois we are blessed with amazing people who not only give their time, but also their talents. Since starting in January, I have been blessed to be able to put names with faces and have had the amazing opportunity to get to work with some of you! I am beyond grateful and inspired. Thank you for welcoming me to the ALS United Illinois Family.
If you have not had the chance to become involved, I strongly urge you to become part of Lou’s Crew of Volunteers. Fundraise, walk, assist a family, or volunteer at an event. You can make a difference!
Mary Ciconte and her husband, Ron Ploof, recently volunteered at our Walk ALS Chicago event. Mary, who like all our volunteers has a willing heart, recently shared her unique perspective as a volunteer with ALS United Illinois.
What motivated you to get involved and support ALS?
I originally became involved with the organization through the White Sox Volunteer Corps of which I am a member. I’ve since volunteered outside of the Volunteer Corps and will continue help in any way I can.
What specific ALS events and projects have you been involved with as a volunteer?
I love volunteering at the Chicago Walk! I’ve cheered on walkers throughout the route, which was a great role for someone as annoyingly happy (as my son says) as me. In 2023 I volunteered at the Walk’s registration tent. Talking to other volunteers and hearing their stories was very powerful.
Volunteering provides unique opportunities for personal growth and development. In what ways has volunteering with ALS United Illinois enriched your life or broadened your perspectives?
I volunteer at many places. There is something very special about ALS United Illinois. Many of the volunteers are personally affected by ALS and the sense of community and hope is strong. After volunteering I was motivated to find out more about ALS and will continue as a volunteer for as long as ALS United Illinois will have me.
What would you say to someone interested in volunteering with ALS United Illinois?
You can make a difference with a worthwhile organization. It’s inspiring to see how motivated everyone is to find a cure for ALS and to assist those affected and their families. You won’t regret volunteering, although your face will be a little sore from smiling.
“I can do things you cannot, you can do things I cannot; together we can do great things.” – Mother Teresa