If you live in the Seattle metro area, there is a good chance you have attended an event organized by The World Is Fun or been one of their 4,000 volunteers that gives back to the community. I wanted to shine some light on this amazing charitable social club and share their story with you all. TWIF Executive Director, Amy Faulkner, helped me out after she dug her way out of a blizzard.
Describe the concept of The World is Fun and what events you plan in the community?
TWIF is not the average charitable social club. We work within Seattle communities to create opportunities for people, businesses and local nonprofits to give back in a way that is social and philanthropic. We connect people to volunteer activities that fits their interests, creates custom volunteering opportunities for local businesses, and helps local nonprofits identify areas where an existing volunteer program can improve or expand.
Some of the events we’ve done in the past include:
• Bacon, Eggs & Kegs (slated for two more occurrences in 2016)
• The Know Your Neighborhood series
• Ninkasi Summer BBQ Program
• Fremont Oktoberfest
• Bubble Futbol
What sets you apart from other similar entities?
TWIF is FUN! All of our volunteer opportunities are unique and fun, allowing participants to get to know their community, neighborhoods and neighbors better. We’re also unique in that our all events are sociable. It’s not a ‘show up and get the work’ done type of environment. Our volunteer staff are eager to create a fun and enjoyable work environment where getting to know everyone is promoted.
What achievements are you most proud of?
We just recently passed $1 million in Volunteer Service Value given back to the Seattle community. This is a huge accomplishment for us, and we are very proud of it. We think it really showcases that what we’ve been doing over these years is truly impacting our communities. In addition, we’re proud of our network of over 4,000 volunteers and being able to operate with 86 volunteer staff members. Last and certainly not least, we’re a 100% volunteer run organization. There’s not many places that can say that with a similar record of success.
Which non-profits and/or charities do you support and how to they relate to what The World is Fun believes in as a company?
See a full list of our partners here.
TWIF supports over 70 different local organizations, businesses and non-profits. A few highlights include Treehouse, Fare Start, Arts & Lectures, and the MOHAI. Each place we partner with must not only be a fun partner to have, but also give back to the community in meaningful ways.
How can people get involved with The World is Fun?
We invite everyone who is interested in learning about our cause to visit our website. It details some of the great events we have coming up and is also where you can sign up to get involved for both one-time volunteering or more long term opportunities. We have plenty of slots still open for events, and also our team here at TWIF. The best way to get to know us is to attend one of our fun events!
