Guest blog post from Lynn, Client and Volunteer with Help At Your Door
I became unable to drive and was dealing with the frustrations that a lack of easy access to transport can bring. A friend told me about Help At Your Door and that they could provide rides. It was just what I needed. Their drivers would come to my door and help me in and out of my house. They were so great. Besides being polite and helpful, they were also interesting. We were able to talk about travel, books, and everything else. It was so nice to have that social interaction and get to know new people. I even started having groceries delivered to my home. The delivery person brings the groceries into my house and even offers to put them away for me. It works so well for me, as I am unable to get groceries into the house by myself.
When my health started to improve in 2021, I decided it was my time to give back. If people were nice enough to volunteer to help me, I could look for something I could do to help. I found that I could volunteer by taking grocery orders. It was incredibly fun, and helping others brings me immense joy. I got to learn about my regulars and discuss what was happening in their lives. I also get recommendations on foods I could try. Their life experiences are very interesting and provide me with new perspectives. I have talked to farmers, factory workers, secretaries, homemakers, accountants, teachers, politicians, and even an actor.
They want to thank me for helping them, but what they do not know is that they help me much more. I love communicating with people, and when you’re home alone, you have little social interaction; talking with them is so rewarding. Right now, I have three regular people I call. I also fill in when other order takers are unable to call. It makes my day talking with a variety of people. I spend about 4 hours a week volunteering, but most of the time is spent chatting with them. Every one of my clients is special and I look forward to talking with them. I am very sad when they no longer use this service, because I miss my conversations with them.
Think about volunteering. You will receive so much more than just the gift of volunteering. One of my people even buys a special treat for her grocery deliverer. You get to develop many new phone friends. Besides working directly with people, the staff at Help At Your Door is fantastic, kind, and helpful. They are there to support you and are available to provide answers to your questions.
Thank you, Lynn!
Lynn, we are grateful for your time, effort, and dedication to the community we serve. Thank you so much for volunteering as a Client Connector with our organization.
Want to learn more about volunteer opportunities with Help At Your Door? For information about specific roles, read our volunteer webpage or contact us at 651-642-1892 or volunteer@helpatyourdoor.org.
