Join me in volunteering at the Beloved Winter Shelter. If they don’t get enough night volunteers they’ll have to stay closed during some extreme temperatures.
The other day I was talking with Amanda Ellis-Thurber, a fellow selectboard member. She reminded me that she has been volunteering with the Beloved Community Winter Shelter up on Town Crier Drive, and encouraged me to do the same. So I reached out to shelter staff, and last weekend did my first shift there.
I did the 6-9am shift. Paired with a more experienced volunteer, I helped wake up guests, serve coffee, clean cots, put away bedding, and take out the trash. I was surprised at the ease of my interactions, how quickly the time passed, and how satisfying I found the experience. I found moments of genuine connection, and a feeling of solidarity. Getting to be part of this community care in this cold weather was deeply gratifying.
You can simply email belovedwintershelter@gmail.com with your availability. There are morning, evening, and overnight shifts. More volunteers needed this week of extreme low temperatures.
Available shifts:
6-9am
8pm-12am
12-6am* / 10pm-2am* / 2-6am*
*Particularly high need for people for these shifts.
I encourage you to reach out to belovedwintershelter@gmail.com with days and shifts you’d be available. You will be paired with a more experienced volunteer and given training at the beginning of your shift.
With warmth and solidarity,
Isaac
