I’ve experienced many unexpected moments and rewards.
I volunteer a lot at Center events: the Anniversary Gala Vanguard Awards, Circle of Life luncheons, AIDS/LifeCycle, and special events for LGBT youth and seniors. I’m usually at the check-in table because I love working with the public and getting to know them.
I’ve met guests from different stages and walks of life at Center events. I’ve had so many unexpected moments and rewards, which is inspiring and humbling. One time, after I was done with check-in at an event, I was talking with two of the Center’s youth clients who were kicked out of their homes for being LGBT. I tried to be encouraging, especially about staying in school. When I saw them again at another event, they told me they were both finishing school and thanked me for our previous conversation. It was a very emotional moment for me.
Volunteer: Terry Lloyd
Hometown: Oakland
Year started at the Center: 2015
Staff position: Special Events