2010 eSpirit
Did you hear about the other rescues?
As I am writing this, the last of the 33 Chilean miners are being rescued after being a half-mile below the surface for 70 days. Part of the recovery success has been credited to many people with diverse experience working together to rescue them. As Pennsylvanians, we are reminded of the Quecreek miners rescue 8 years ago.
Did you know there are rescues in process every day, led by the staff of Volunteers of America? For example, there are youth like Maria and Miguel in Pittsburgh who live in neighborhoods with drug dealers, abusive parents, poor nutrition, and not a lot of support for staying in school. But, Volunteers of America’s All of Us Care staff, led by Jan, provides summer activities, a year-round computer lab, help with homework, and other programs that keep the children and youth focused on doing good in school, staying away from drugs and alcohol, and helping others in need. They teach the youth to rescue themselves and each other.
Shannon, social service coordinator at Laurel Towers, one of our affordable housing complexes for low-income elderly, was telling about an elderly gentleman, who used to own a small business, and now lives in one of our apartments. It appears he only has a few months to live. Shannon is working with him to provide comfort, food, and healthcare in his last days, rescuing his dignity and providing friendship in his last days.
Mike, coordinator of our Manna House apartments for homeless young adults, tells of the hopefulness that young adults feel when they first move into the program. They now have, under one roof, a safe place to live, their own bed, a shower, food, and professional support from those who care. Mike and our staff know they now have an opportunity to change lives by helping these young adults learn to become stable, self-sufficient and productive adults who will be well on their way to more fulfilling futures.
And it is you who help make these rescues possible, through your generous donations of money and volunteer time. I wish there was a way for you to see and understand how critical your help is in the lives of those we serve.
Many components go into this work, such as resources, talent, skills, dedication, materials, supplies, donations, staff, and volunteers. These are the tools needed in providing rescues every day, 365 days a year.
Please accept my invitation to schedule a visit and see first-hand the work being done. We serve not only those who need help, but also those who need to help.
Sincerely,
Alan R. Garner, President
Volunteers of America of Pennsylvan