Volunteer Spotlight
Volunteers are the lifeblood of any organization and the Safe House for Women is fortunate to have a committed group who love serving at the Thrift Store and other events. A sense of camaraderie, serving the community and supporting the Safe House’s cause to help victims of domestic and sexual violence and build safe communities are important reasons why volunteers have become invaluable to the organization.
“This really makes you feel good,” said Erna Phillips. Phillips has helped at the store for over two years. “There are nice bosses here, it doesn’t cost a thing and there’s the satisfaction of doing something good for someone.”
Melba Dewrock has volunteered for over five years. She said she enjoys the friendships that grow from helping, “I love meeting a lot new people and spending time with friends.”
June Campbell said making friends has been a benefit of helping the Safe House along with supporting the cause. She said, “THis is a good cause. There are a lot of good people here, I’ve made a lot of good friends and it gives you a sense of accomplishment.”
Leslie McHughes said she enjoys both the camaraderie of volunteering and supporting the Safe House’s cause. She said, “I love helping, I’m a people person, and I enjoy doing a variety of things and I know this is for a good cause and I am just amazed.”
McHughes called the Safe House Thrift Store, “my favorite place.” She said, “I came in shopping one day and saw they needed volunteers and I asked Liz about it and I started helping.”
In fiscal year 2015, the thrift store received 5,702 hours of service from 57 volunteers. This helped the Safe House clients redeem $7,074.00 worth of vouchers for clothing, household items and other needs they may not have been able to meet otherwise.
The Safe House’s volunteers reflect the generosity of the community.
“I am overwhelmed by the generosity of the people,” said volunteer Lester Wells. “It is unbelievable and fantastic that there are so many people helping us. THere are a lot of other places in the community they could support and people still come to us.”
Wells has volunteered for over four years. “I love it,” he said. “You meet a lot of nice people and you get the sense you’re doing something good for the community.”
Susan Ellrod said volunteering is, “spending time in a worthwhile way to help those less fortunate.”
Ellrod has volunteered since the store opened. She said she began mopping and helps out where she is needed. “The cause can use all the help it can get and I’m hopeful the store adds a lot to that.”
Ellrod also enjoyed helping the Safe House by eating at the Taco Tuesday fundraiser.
Rose Quinn said she also enjoys serving the Thrift Store customers. She said, “I love going through the trendy clothes to find bargains and it is a pleasure to help customers find deals.”
The Safe House relies on the support of the volunteers in everyday matters and in events. Volunteer opportunities are available to help with Project Homeless Connect on Oct. 7, Vintage NOW 7 on Oct. 22 and more.
For more information, call 573-335-7745 or click the volunteer tab on the site.
