Helping While on Furlough

2 Thursdays ago when I arrived at #SoWhatElse (SWE), there was a volunteer checking in people who had appointments. That's what I do, too. I was happy to see her because it's great to have 2 people at the desk. We have about 150 appointments a day. After I got situated, I struck up a conversation with her. Not a big surprise, right! 

Our volunteers come from many different situations. I have worked with students who need community service hours. I have worked with people who are serving court-ordered community service. I have worked with people who want to make a difference in our communities. This lady's situation was a first.

Her name is Lauren. She is lovely and I enjoyed working with her. Lauren came to SWE because she is a furloughed government employee. She chose to use her free time (as in not being paid) volunteering! She was such an inspiration. She didn't have a pissed off attitude about the furlough, although she certainly wasn't happy about it. She was not allowed to work so she wanted to be useful in a very beautiful way!

Last Thursday there was another lady at the desk when I arrived. Her name is Samantha. She is also a furloughed government employee! She wanted to use her furlough to give back, too! Samantha is Chinese. During the course of the day on 3 different occasions, Chinese people came in. They didn't speak English. Samantha spoke with them and translated for them. Samantha put each of those people at ease with her big smile and her knowledge of their language. Another heartwarming experience for me!

I can only imagine what it must be like to not be able to afford food. I do know how difficult it is to need help. SWE understands! We do our best to welcome people and to treat everybody with dignity and respect!

All donations are tax deductible and greatly appreciated. Click the link below if you would like to donate.

https://linktr.ee/sowhatelsedonates

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