Jane Seymour, A Mother's Day Conversation
It’s Mother’s Day weekend and we are celebrating mothers who volunteer!
We had the opportunity to talk with our Co-Founder, volunteer Board Member, benefactor, and visionary, Jane Seymour. Enjoy these reasons why volunteering is important to Jane, to our Foundation, and to the Philosophy that inspires our mission.
The Foundation: Was volunteering important to your Mother?
Jane: Volunteering was very important in our family growing up. We would help nurses at the hospital at least two weekends a month and we joined the Red Cross so we looked after wheelchair bound and the disabled, both physically and mentally. We also supported the charity, National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children.
The Foundation: How was volunteering a part of your childhood?
Jane: We were always helping and sharing with those in need and especially some kids who needed the kind of family atmosphere that was such a big part of our lives. We had so many young girls stay with us from all over the world and they became our extended family.
The Foundation: How do you see volunteering as an intergenerational opportunity to give back?
Jane: I’m so proud of my children and grand children who volunteer. Katie with her amazing group of mothers and children and Kris and Miso with their church. Whether they are using their skills as speakers, activists, photographers, or teaching skills, all of us who volunteer feel Mieke’s wisdom that having a purpose and making a difference for others feeds our spirit and brings joy to our lives.
The Foundation: What inspires you to volunteer?
Jane: My mother always told us that you don’t need to look far to find people worse off than you, that you can help in some way, and when you can help them, it opens your heart. It is one of the reasons why I started the Open Hearts Foundation, to create a movement and inspire others with her philosophy. When I first drew my iconic Open Hearts painting of two hearts that are open and connected, I hoped that it will become a symbol of the giving and receiving of love. We all have a role to play in lifting each other up. Volunteering is one way we can all make a difference.
