Reflecting on Volunteer Appreciation Month

To celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Month in April, Wesley Housing recognized the many volunteers who give their time and energy to build up the lives of our residents.

Over the last year, our volunteers donated 2,500 hours of their time in many capacities including: youth and adult education assistants and tutors; translators; holiday helpers (gift wrappers, delivery drivers); photographers; food pantry assistants; youth summer camp chaperones; and more. On behalf of our residents and team, thank you for helping to deliver our mission daily.

Here’s what several volunteers had to say about supporting Wesley Housing’s mission.

 

“After I retired from working for one of the nation’s largest nonprofits, I wanted to find a new way to contribute to the community. I enjoy meeting and talking with the residents and watching them leave with healthy food for their families. I have a much better idea of how many Arlingtonians are in need of food and other kinds of support. It really isn’t evident to most people in the community.” – Carol R., food distribution volunteer, 8 years

 

“I enjoy building relationships with the residents we serve the most. It’s really humbled me I feel and reminded me not to take anything for granted. I love helping those in need.” – Ginny H., food distribution volunteer, 7 years

 

“I enjoy having the opportunity to both apply my hobby and provide a meaningful service in both in promoting awareness of local affordable housing issues and more specifically Wesley’s great work in addressing those problems and the service provided to the community. If pictures are worth a thousand words, I feel that I have written novels promoting awareness of Wesley’s efforts. With the stories I have told, I feel a sense of hope in that Wesley’s message will spread further than it would have otherwise. With that extra reach, I also hope that Wesley will be able to garner additional support for all of the great work and service they provide.” – Keith P., photography volunteer, 1 year

 

“I believe I’m making the biggest impact in serving our community when I have the opportunity to translate for our Hispanic residents who are newly applying for AFAC services or who need assistance with their accounts. As an immigrant to the US, I remember how difficult it was for my parents and me to adapt and find resources while learning the language. I appreciate the opportunity to now pay forward the kindness of others who made us feel welcome and supported us as we adjusted to our new home.” – Sonia B., food distribution volunteer, 3 years

 

Interested in volunteering for Wesley Housing?

Visit our website to apply: https://wesleyhousing.org/volunteer/