As a 501(c)3 nonprofit, Bethel Woods relies on the generosity of volunteers who give their time, talent, and attention to our organization every year. We are so grateful for their contributions as they are a huge part of what makes our organization so special.
In honor of Volunteer Appreciation Week, learn a little bit about some of our volunteers, their interpretation of Woodstock, and how you can get involved!
Meet Glenn Woodell: A Volunteer at Bethel Woods since 2007!
What keeps you inspired?
“If you’re talking about here, about coming here as a volunteer, it’s never the same. You would think it is, but it’s not because we have a rotation of people, and on a normal summer we have [visitors] from all over the country...I’ve learned and listened to so many interesting things from people from around the world. The newness every day, even though you wouldn’t think so, is what keeps me inspired.”
What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
“Well the short answer, and really as I get older (and I’m like 103 *wink*), is to be authentic. Just be authentic. Whatever that is for you and how it works, just be authentic, and that will be just about the best you can be."
What does Woodstock mean to you?
“...I lived here during the original Woodstock just about ten minutes away, and I worked here at the OG Woodstock with Food For Love. I hired for them and I ran four food booths at the back of the bowl, so I feel very lucky that I have that memory of Woodstock...it was a very wonderful learning experience.”
What do you think we can do to live with more peace in our lives?
"Be kind. We just really need to be kinder if possible with each other. It’s not hard, and it’s a good personal social habit to get into. I think kindness begets kindness, you know, and especially right now with COVID-19 it’s a good way to be and a good thing to strive for.”