National Volunteer Month

To the editor:

As Director of Volunteer Services at Rosie’s Place, I welcome the occasion of National Volunteer Month to acknowledge the more than 2,400 individuals who give their time and talents to us each year. We are especially grateful to Roslindale resident Judith Coughlin, who has generously volunteered 168 hours since 2013 preparing and serving meals in our dining room and helping guests in our food pantry.

Rosie’s Place, like so many nonprofit organizations, relies heavily on volunteers to provide critical services to the poor and homeless women we serve. In the course of a year, volunteers contribute more than 60,000 hours of service, which is equivalent to 30 paid employees. They enjoy teaching English to non-native speakers, preparing and serving meals in our dining room, bringing a group to cater a meal and leading arts workshops for our guests. We would not be Rosie’s Place without the amazing work of our volunteers.

Many volunteers choose Rosie’s Place because they feel strongly about helping poor women advance in our community. They find it rewarding to make a difference in someone’s life–no matter how small. Their contributions allow Rosie’s Place to continue to welcome every woman who comes through our doors with unconditional love, acceptance and support. We salute our volunteers and thank them for their gifts of kindness and caring, now and each day of the year.

Sincerely,
Marty Wengert
Director of Volunteer Services
Rosie's Place