When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, I lost my job and was struggling to find a sense of purpose. I am longtime admirer of the Center’s work and important services, so I decided to volunteer.
Getting involved connected me to an inspiring and resilient family of volunteers. I can’t think of a club I’d rather be part of than our brave, resilient, and loving community.
My volunteer hours have been spent at Pride Pantry, where I help to make sure that members of the community are able to safely receive enough food and groceries during the pandemic.
While doing this work, I’ve had a lot of profound conversations with other volunteers. What has been most memorable has been listening to those from the generations before me who worked tirelessly to bring the conversation of LGBT rights to the forefront.
One volunteer has even inspired me to work towards participating in next year’s AIDS/LifeCycle! I realized if there was any way in which I could help put an end to this crisis, then I will spend my time doing just that.
Just like many people, I hit some emotional lows during the pandemic. But getting to volunteer with the Center has really given me a lot to look forward to and I can’t imagine my life without it!
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Hometown: Normal, IL
Year Started Volunteering at Center: 2020
Volunteer Positions: Pride Pantry
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