Submitted by Kizzie Funkhouser
We are fellow volunteers that serve those in need,
Farmers of hope, we’re planting the seeds –
Weeding out obstacles when lives’ pathways are blocked.
Standing together, our diverse strands, woven to stalks
Of goodwill and compassion we nurture,
Strong – rooted in belief that every life matters
That dignity and respect have no boundaries or status.
We are young, we are old, yet we are the same
Our vision not of the chore, we see the faces, know names,
Know the look of appreciation and the sighs of relief,
Volunteers motivate, because we believe –
That making a difference is within our reach.
We are driven in faith that we can improve,
The quality of one’s life, it touches us too.
We are volunteers, we just are, we just do.
The man in the store without help, he can’t read the labels
But can cook up a meal befit the KINGS table,
There’s a woman independent but can no longer drive
Her eyes, they light up when you simply arrive.
Volunteers are a blessing, they just are, they just do.
Here are a few of our stories that represent the essence of volunteerism.
We extend our thanks to all volunteers whose compassion always gets the gold.
Let the games begin.
Gifts of Compassion from Volunteer Chore Services volunteers
Three stories
Living alone at age 90 is a challenge. With a limited income and her nearest family in Vancouver, she counts on VCS volunteers to help keep the home in shape, take her grocery shopping and to medical appointments. One volunteer visits weekly to vacuum, mop, fold laundry and change bed linens.
At 84, she is partially sighted and living with arthritis. She confided her fear that her yard would be “what sends me to a nursing home, because they say I can’t take care of it.” VCS volunteers totaled 100 hours that summer clearing her yard of weeds, blackberries, and debris, so that she is able to walk into her garden again.
Living with stage 4 cancer and fighting through chemo treatments leaves him with very little energy. With the rainy season nearing, he knew the gutters needed cleaning but could no longer safely climb a ladder. VCS volunteers cleaned the gutters, swept off the roof and repaired some damaged spouts. He said they did a fabulous job and was so appreciative, not just for the work completed, but for the kind spirit in which it was offered.
Volunteer Chore Services volunteers provided an average of 3,972 hours of assistance each month throughout King County last year, helping with housework, laundry, shopping, transportation, minor home repair and yard work.