One of my top goals for 2020 was to become a volunteer for the Los Angeles LGBT Center. Then came the COVID-19 outbreak, and I was worried I wouldn’t be able to.
But the Center responded quickly and adapted to the changing environment, and I am currently working as a volunteer for Senior Services as part of their Senior Angel delivery program.
It’s so challenging to keep a safe distance from the seniors in self-isolation because they are so excited to see someone at their doorstep. I have found that immediately stepping back to a safe distance and allowing them to thank me and engage in some very simple conversation makes them really happy.
My very first day of volunteering, I met a woman who was having the most difficult time getting fresh groceries to her home. All she needed was someone to get the items on her grocery list. I was so happy to do the grocery shopping for her and, even though I thought it was a really simple task, she was so beyond excited that I helped her that she couldn’t stop thanking me. She was the sweetest.
Volunteering has really given me an opportunity to stop feeling helpless during this COVID-19 crisis and to start helping. If people like me feel stressed, lost, or confused, I can only imagine how much more difficult it is for those in need right now, especially seniors. So volunteering at the Center has given me an opportunity to feel a little bit closer to normal during this challenging time.
So much has changed for me since I began volunteering. I am in the middle of a career change and honestly I had no idea what I wanted to do after leaving my old, very stressful job behind. Regardless of where I end up, I know that my future job must positively impact the world around me.
For anyone who is considering becoming a volunteer, do it! The staff is so incredibly thankful and supportive and if you feel trapped or helpless right now during COVID, it’s the perfect way to support our community.
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Hometown: Phoenix, AZ
Year Started Volunteering At The Center: 2020
Volunteer Position: Senior Services
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