Meet Lily
Lily McCloskey was a busy senior before graduating from Case Western Reserve University this spring. She juggled studying biomedical engineering (pre-med track), competing on Case’s tennis team, and regularly volunteering at Cleveland Sight Center during the school year. How did she find the time?
“I always make time for volunteering because it's something I enjoy, and it's something that boosts me through the day,” Lily explains. “Instead of something I have to go to, it's something I get to go do.”
Lily credits that mindset to help her prioritize volunteering in her schedule, even when she’s really busy.
“I just love coming and seeing everyone,” she explains. “That really helps me plan for it in my week and just gets me excited about going!”
Lily first found out about Cleveland Sight Center through her roommate, who began volunteering here before she did. Hearing such positive things about her roomie’s experience inspired Lily to volunteer herself, and she’s been coming back ever since!
Throughout her three years of volunteering, Lily assisted CSC’s recreation team in a variety of activities, including crafts, dance classes and field trips to see plays at Playhouse Square. Her favorite is the dance classes. She’s learned a few new moves!
“What I've learned the most is really how to put myself in other people's shoes, and get out of your own mindset,” Lily said.
As a student on the pre-med track, Lily will take what she’s learned as a volunteer and use it as a doctor one day.
“I think a big part of medicine is explaining to people what's going on with their bodies,” she said. “By putting yourself in other people's perspectives and, understanding where they're coming from, you can find the best way to explain it to them. This translates so well.”
Lily values the community and personal growth she experienced at CSC, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding. She learned to adapt to the needs of visually impaired individuals and has developed strong connections with both volunteers and staff. Lily encourages others to volunteer, highlighting the positive impact it has on both the volunteer and the community.
“It's honestly been one of my most meaningful experiences through my time in college,” she said. “The community here is so strong, and everyone gets excited to see you again when you miss a week. They're like, ‘Oh, where were you? Hope you're doing okay.’ It's just such a great organization on every level. People are always doing so much to make an impact here, and it's just such a fun thing to be a part of.”
To start your own volunteer experience with Cleveland Sight Center, visit the volunteer page on our website and submit a volunteer application. Our volunteer services department will reach out to you from there!
