Volunteers: Give a little-get a lot!
Volunteerism is one of the major reasons for Wilson Commencement Park's success. Dedication and support from the community help fill the needs of clients who are striving to build new, independent lives.
Here are some of the people who are giving their time and talents to help others:
- Nancy Miller-Randall and Gloria Read take time out of their busy days to help build the Mentoring Program. They were crucial in developing a brochure to recruit new mentors and also helped organize a mentor training evening.
- Gail Dede, an employee of the Rochester Business Alliance and a former WCP Board Member, volunteers as a mentor to a graduate of the Park. Gail was one of the founders of the mentoring program and continues to assist in improving the program. Recently she spoke at a training for mentors.
- Employees from Citizens, JPMorgan Chase Bank, M&T Bank, State Farm Insurance, Mary Kay Cosmetics, and many other area companies present evening educational workshops on various topics such as Financial Literacy and Health: Wellness, Strengthening the Family and Next Step Housing.
- Kathy Gulling and Joyce Roeding can be found reading to the children in the Early Learning Center on a regular basis. They also assist with the fun activities of the classroom.
Quotes from Volunteers:
Tom Linhart, the Spencerport teacher who is advisor to the For Kids By Kids Civic Engagement project sponsored by the Rochester Area Community Foundation, notes that "the best part of my job is working with young people who learn about themselves. I watch them and read their papers and reflect on how they've grown. Projects like For Kids By Kids help to reclaim the good name of youth. These are students who are willing to risk and go where they can make a difference. They have changed my life." Mr. Linhart also noted that "Wilson Commencement Park exists because of the community of Rochester and this truly is a great place to be."
Christine Singleton of the Southwest Family Resource Center says she's "met some tremendous Moms and their children. It is a blessing to work here as a volunteer. We are all parents first and it's a blessing to be volunteering here. WCP is a place to get needed support and I enjoy facilitating the evening groups. The parents are reaching their goals despite so many obstacles."
G. Jean Howard, WCP's former Executive Director says "volunteers really round out our agency. When you volunteer you get gifts back in another form. The spirit of giving is so strong here at the Park and you could never put a price tag on it. We need people who give of their time and talents as well as financial support."
These are only a few of the many generous people who feel reach out and touch others with their talents. If you are interested in joining these volunteers who are changing lives one day at a time please email Mary Lippa or call her at 263-7942.
