Recently we spoke with volunteers Sue and Joyce about their experiences at Carpenter’s Shelter. Both volunteers have been with the shelter for 25 years, serving lunch twice a week to our clients. We are so thankful to them for their years of dedication and service to Carpenter’s.
When did you get involved with Carpenter’s? What attracted you to the shelter?
Joyce: We’ve both been here about 25 years. My husband and I got involved in the beginning. We had a business and I found that I could take some time from that and help out in the kitchen and well, here we are.
Sue: My husband and I moved here from Arkansas, and I thought this would be a nice way to get involved.
What part of volunteering do you find rewarding?
Joyce: Being here with the people. You get to know the residents and you become fond of them. Of course you get to know them and then they leave, but that’s always a great thing.
Sue: It’s just a personal touch. We get to know everyone and learn their story.
What do you hope for the shelter long term?
Sue: For it to continue to do as well as it is.
Joyce: We started volunteering when the shelter was still in a warehouse. To see it grow like this is pretty great.
What’s your biggest takeaway?
Sue: I’d say it’s the satisfaction of a job well done and getting to know everyone here.
Joyce: Definitely the satisfaction that I’ve done something to help. Volunteering in the kitchen, you know, we’re only here for a short amount of time, but it’s nice to be able to do a little bit to help.
Carpenter’s relies heavily on the service and generosity of our volunteers and donors. If you’d like to volunteer with the shelter please click here!