April is National Volunteer Month, and Catholic Charities knows that volunteering transforms lives. Throughout April, we will be celebrating volunteers across southern Minnesota showing how they are providing help and creating hope in our community.
In today’s fast-paced world, it is easy to feel disconnected from the needs of our community. However, when we take the time to give back and share our skills with those in need, we can create lasting, positive change. That is why volunteering is a vital part of our mission at Catholic Charities of Southern Minnesota.
We believe that every person has unique talents and abilities that they can use for the greater good. By volunteering, you will not only make a meaningful impact on the lives of others, but you will also experience personal growth and a renewed sense of purpose.
Teresa retired as a software engineer at IBM and wanted to do more in her retirement than just sit at home. Now she uses her data entry skills at the Two Rivers Habitat for Humanity ReStore. She also teaches a Stay Active and Independent for Life (SAIL) exercise class to help other seniors stay healthy.
“I saw a lot of people at the beginning, who could not do a lot of movement,” Teresa said, “but gradually after over a year, they can do it – ballet moves, squats, everything. I have a lot of fun with that class.”
Through her work as a SAIL exercise class instructor, she has had the opportunity to form strong connections with participants and witness firsthand the difference that staying active can make in their lives.
Our volunteers play a crucial role in helping us provide help and create hope for the most vulnerable people in our community. They especially help that mission by volunteering at our warming shelters.
Ann and Clark, a compassionate couple, devote their time to supporting our Emergency Housing program by assisting at the Rochester Community Warming Center once a week. Their dedication and empathy have provided warmth and safety to those experiencing homelessness throughout the year. They say they get more from spending time at the shelter than they give.
“You get to meet people in our town that you might not otherwise get a chance to meet,“ Clark said. “Turns out they’re really good people, and we’ve made a lot of friends.”
“What I get out of volunteering is the sense that none of us are walking alone,” added Ann. “Some days I come, and depending on what’s happened in my day, maybe my heart is heavy. And because of the relationships that Clark and I have developed here, with the guests here, I believe they have a sense when my heart is heavy and they walk along with me and I get the opportunity to do that when the reverse is true.”
These are just a few examples of the incredible impact that our volunteers have on the lives of those we serve. By sharing your time and talents with Catholic Charities of Southern Minnesota, you too can be part of this transformative journey.
If you are ready to make a difference and be a beacon of hope for those in need, we encourage you to explore our various volunteering opportunities. No matter your background, interests, or skill set, there is a place for you within our community of dedicated volunteers.
For those 55 and better, our Active Aging program is a part of the AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP program. Catholic Charities staff can help you find the right volunteering opportunity to best use your skills and your time at home or out in the community.
Our Emergency Housing Program accepts volunteers 18 years old and up to help staff during the busiest times at the Winona and Rochester shelters.
Volunteers can help make refugees feel welcome by helping set up their new homes, shopping for groceries, or just being another friendly face to connect with in the community.
Together, we can create a brighter future for all members of our community. Your time and talents can change lives, and with your help, Catholic Charities of Southern Minnesota will continue to provide help and create hope for years to come.