April is National Volunteer Month, but we rely on the generosity of volunteers year-round here at Guild. These are people who truly believe in the work we do and want to help, whether in big ways or small.
Volunteers support our lifesaving services and programs in a variety of ways. We have folks assisting us at fundraising events — checking in guests, handing out raffle tickets, and setting up or cleaning up. We have volunteers who devote time to our Community Support Program (CSP) member center to lead and teach classes like financial literacy, art, yoga, and computer skills. We also have a dedicated volunteer ambassador group that supports our organization by sharing our mission with their networks and legislators, speaking about our work at community events, and helping us roll out new projects.
“Not being a widely known nonprofit, this is a huge support,” Elizabeth Wagner, our Community Engagement Specialist, says. “Our clients really have a chance to get to know these volunteers and see that they continue time and again to devote their time to Guild.”
Seeing volunteers repeatedly show up for them is important, Elizabeth says, because many Guild clients have experienced being left behind or ignored by the systems that are supposed to help them, creating a lot of mistrust. Our volunteers treat them as equals, with the same needs, wants, and goals as anyone else. “That makes a big difference.” And like other organizations devoted to the kinds of services we provide at Guild, many of our volunteers have faced similar situations as our clients, or have watched family members face mental illness or homelessness. They have deep understanding and empathy for what our clients are going through.
“Our volunteers treat clients with dignity,” Elizabeth says. “I think people might assume that our clients are very different from them, but our clients are the same as any volunteer or staff in that they just want to live with basic needs and safety, connect with others, and have time for personal interests and goals. Because of our volunteers’ own personal experiences and their interest and education in mental health, they understand this. They also understand that clients can be living with very different backgrounds and traumas, and that doesn’t change their basic needs and humanity, it informs how volunteers interact with an individual based on their unique experience, trauma, and personality.”
For anyone who might be considering volunteering at Guild, Elizabeth says it’s important to her that our volunteers feel just as welcomed as the clients we serve.
“We want them to have a good experience and volunteer in a role that is a good fit for them and of genuine interest,” she says. “Some volunteers prefer working directly with clients, while some are looking for an opportunity helping with admin tasks. The goal is for volunteers to find a role where they’re comfortable and that matches their skill set, or skills they hope to build. Volunteering is a partnership, not a one-way relationship.”
One example of that partnership is a Guild volunteer ambassador, Melissa, who routinely donates items to support our programs. “She has donated everything from coats, socks, and personal hygiene products, to games, puzzles, and books,” Elizabeth shared with us. “Her experience in and personal connection to this work informs what can be most meaningful to clients, but she also deeply understands putting client needs first.”
Volunteering is a rewarding and meaningful experience for both the person giving their time and for our clients. Quite simply, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do without them! Click here to learn more about current volunteer opportunities at Guild.