Volunteers power Haven Ministries

On a recent afternoon at Haven Ministries, about a dozen volunteers across three sites fulfilled roles at a professional level.

In the Queenstown food pantry, volunteers unloaded deliveries, stocked freezers and shelves, and welcomed shoppers. At the Hope Furniture Store, another crew unloaded furniture, rang up customers, and arranged the goods in store. At Our Daily Thread Thrift Shop, volunteers sorted and priced donations, worked the register, and helped customers.

It was a typical day for Haven Ministries, and the organization counts on volunteers to help feed, clothe, and house people.

In recognition of Volunteer Appreciation Month in April, Haven Ministries is highlighting the depth and breadth of the volunteer effort that sustains its programs, the hours people happily labor to support their neighbors.

“The volunteers are the backbone of this organization,” said Haven Ministries Executive Director Peter Grim. “Their dedication, generosity, and positivity fuel their work, and we could not be more grateful for or inspired by them.”

Sandy Holicky, who has been volunteering at the food pantry for less than a year, said she first came after seeing a need.

“I saw an ad that they needed some people, and I decided to come down,” she said. “I like working with the people and those who are coming in.”

Holicky often helps stock freezers and organize supplies.

“I’m a very good packer,” she said. “We need more volunteers, so please consider volunteering.”

Kelly Freeland, who began volunteering in November, said she wanted to help during a difficult time.

“The shutdown was going on, and I just really wanted to help people, so I guess that’s what sparked it,” she said.

“It’s busy the whole time,” she added. “You’re meeting nice people and doing something helpful.”

Suzy Blackburn, who has volunteered for about a year, said she was looking for something meaningful after retiring.

“I was retired and was looking for something worthwhile to do,” she said. “I’ve admired Haven Ministries over the years, so I came here.”

At the Hope Furniture Store, volunteers take on physically demanding and creative work to help people furnish their homes.

Dylan Jones, volunteering for about three weeks as part of community service, said, “I like doing something for good. It’s helping people who are looking for houses and furnishing.”

“They need a lot of help with moving furniture,” he added. “That’s why I’m here, to lend a helping hand.”

Terri Sprouse, who has volunteered at the store for nearly two years, said she came to Haven after retiring from running a recovery residence.

“I wanted to continue serving unhoused people,” she said. “They said the furniture store was their greatest need at the time.”

Sprouse helps unload, price items, assist shoppers, and run the register. She also uses her background in design to create displays.

“I try to create vignettes,” she said. “Although we move furniture quickly. It’s a hard job to keep up with.”

“We need more volunteers,” she added. “Come join the fun.”

At Our Daily Thread Thrift Shop, long-time volunteers say the work builds community as much as it supports the mission.

Carol Trinkley, who has volunteered for nearly seven years, said, “Giving back to the resources that help — I really believe in that strongly. I’ve met a lot of people through volunteering and made some good friends.”

Maribeth Cullom, who has also volunteered for about seven years, said volunteering became a natural fit in retirement.

“My husband and I have always volunteered, particularly after we retired,” she said. “I was getting older; it seemed like something I could do and so far it’s worked out.”

“The people keep me coming back — both the people I work with and the people who come in to shop,” she added.

Haven Ministries relies on volunteers across its programs every day, from food distribution to furniture and retail operations. Those interested in volunteering can contact the organization to learn more about current opportunities.

To support Haven Ministries, visit www.haven-ministries.org