January 2012 eSpirit

You helped us in our time of need.

Although the flood of several months ago subsided quickly, getting back in our building was not quick. It was about eight weeks with work still left to be done. But, thankfully, our services continued without interruption.

Our lives can be like that. A major event occurs in our lives very quickly, but recovering can take a while. And, it is always a memory.

After the flood, the staff was provided temporary offices in other locations. The young adults we serve in Manna House were in a motel for the duration. Kings College invited them to a hot meal every day. Air Products immediately made a major donation to help offset expenses for all the supplies and materials we lost. The Luzerne Foundation and Citizens Bank also made major donations.

Today, we are back in our building. Offices have been restored to use and the young adults are back in their apartments.

The flood is a memory. We’ll be better prepared if there is another flood.

It is an opportunity for us to set the example and show those we serve how to recover from changes in life. We can’t prevent trauma or bad things happening, but we can determine how we will deal with them.

In a couple of months, March 8 to be exact, Volunteers of America will have been serving for 116 years. We have been through thick and thin over those years.

It is all because of people like you--donors, volunteers, and community supporters who have been faithful that we are able to continue to serve those in need.

Thank you. You have helped us in our time of need. We need you to continue. The help you provide shows up in the lives of those we serve. And, please email me at agarner@voapa.org or send me a note telling me when you first heard of or met Volunteers of America. How did you get to know us?

I will look forward to your note.

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