I wanted to put my energies behind a cause that I believe in, and I love the work that the Los Angeles LGBT Center does to uplift the community it serves.
Before the COVID-19 crisis began, I would fill-in sporadically as a volunteer whenever I had the time. But now I have the ability to volunteer on a regular basis and have found a place amongst the Senior Angels crew which helps facilitate the delivery of groceries to seniors in need.
Because of the global pandemic, there were many days I felt pretty hopeless and saddened by the state of our world. But offering help to those who need it has been a good way to persist and carry on. It gives me some perspective and helps me to see that, even through tough times, we can find strength within to keep going.
Some of the seniors whom I’ve been able to chat with on the phone have really uplifted me. There was one senior in particular who was referencing a quote in a movie that made her laugh. Even though I didn’t understand the reference due to the generational gap, it didn’t even matter! The fact that our interaction brought a moment of joy to her day was a wonderful thing.
The Center’s staff is chock full of kind people who are so appreciative to have an extra hand. It’s always fun to learn something new and being a volunteer has given me a lot of satisfaction.
Oftentimes, I have felt as though I need to be doing more to bring about social change. But, by volunteering at the Center, I can do exactly that in a variety of ways. It’s wonderful!
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Hometown: Farmington Hills, MI
Year Started Volunteering at Center: 2018
Volunteer Positions: Senior Angels, Special Events, Youth Services
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