The value and impact of volunteering
The St John Volunteer Corps Award serves as a significant recognition of the value placed by the Order of St John on volunteering. For Joe, the highlight was receiving the award along with Order of St John colleagues directly from HRH The Duke of Gloucester, the Grand Prior of the Order of St John, during the 2025 investiture for the Priory in the USA.
Joe sees volunteering as a deeply personal mission. He finds fulfilment in creating programmes and helping those in need. Beyond providing physical assistance, he values listening to the stories of those he helps, acknowledging their humanity. Offering dignity and solace is the most rewarding aspect of service.
The impact of volunteer work is best gauged by the positive changes it brings to the lives of those who are supported. Joe treasures moments such as helping a blind, wheelchair-bound veteran play bingo, an experience that brought the individual immense joy. Spending time with veterans, whether enabling them to participate in games or engaging in recreational activities like bocce ball and bowling, has been deeply rewarding. These experiences highlight how volunteering fosters joy, connection and dignity for others.
Volunteering and leadership development
According to Joe, leadership today goes beyond professional success. It requires a dedication to giving back and addressing societal challenges. Volunteering provides valuable insights into how business and leadership can drive positive change, sparking creativity to develop impactful initiatives and solutions. For Executive MBA students and alumni, service is a vital part of leadership development, offering opportunities to identify needs, innovate and inspire others.
The Cambridge Executive MBA programme was a transformative experience for Joe, equipping him with the skills and insights necessary for effective leadership while broadening his perspective on impactful service. The programme emphasises the importance of senior executives possessing strong leadership potential, clear motivations and the ability to effectively manage teams, resources and projects. These qualities are equally vital in volunteering. It also cultivates a deep understanding of the global business environment and strategic decision-making, providing skills that seamlessly translate into impactful volunteer leadership.
Looking ahead: continuing the legacy of service
The journey of volunteering is far from over, as there is still much work to be done. The difference made through service today has the potential to create a significant and lasting impact on individuals and communities. Inspired by the enduring legacy of the Order of St John, Joe remains committed to continuing his efforts to make a meaningful contribution to society and to make a lasting difference in the world.
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