Recently, PEACE, Inc.’s County West Family Resource Center held a celebratory luncheon for their team of devoted volunteers. Through a partnership with Community Options, volunteers and their mentors come by throughout the week to help clean, sort, and fold clothing donations. Center staff Shelly and Barbara repeatedly emphasized how critical these volunteers are in maintaining both positive energy and smooth operations. Their meticulous work frees staff up to spend more time with community members dropping in, many of whom have complex and pressing needs. (Those needs can range from advocacy for a special needs child to senior wellness checks; help with a National Grid shutoff to emergency housing.)

Billy (pictured) has been volunteering here for over 20 years. When asked why he stuck around for so long, he said that he loved feeling useful and that they made every volunteer feel valued every single day. Congratulations everyone for working hand in hand, establishing and promulgating a virtuous circle. Your neighbors are better for it!