April Volunteer Newsletter

Standing Up For Those Left Behind

April is here!

April is here and the orchid has bloomed in the JFS volunteer office! I'm sure you are all just as excited for these small hints of spring. This month's newsletter includes a volunteer spotlight, volunteer survey, and upcoming opportunities!

Volunteer Spotlight


Name: Ken Brown
Occupation: Former Marketing and Finance Manager
Time with JFS: 3 years
Volunteer Position: Volunteer Administrator

Ken started volunteering with JFS in March of 2011 with his first assignment in the development office. He currently helps the volunteer program with new volunteer screening, database management, and general support. Ken decided to volunteer with JFS because in 1994 he had explored adopting through the agency. Through his conversations then, he came away impressed with the agency and decided 17 years later to begin volunteering with the agency. When asked what he likes about volunteering with JFS he said that, "I feel that the rapid processing of new volunteers through the system helps get our services quickly to those that need help the most." He also said that, "the currency here is a heartfelt, 'thank you', which is not given enough when you are being paid."  In his spare time, Ken likes to travel or plan his next trip. He also likes to read a lot of non-fiction history and is a big Pats fan!

Thanks Ken for helping in the transition to a new volunteer process. Your dedication to the work that you do and feedback on how to improve the program helps immensely! 

Volunteer Survey
 
At JFS we value the input of our volunteers.  Since many of you are out "on the job" we may not get to see you all the time.  As a result, we'd love to get your feedback so we created a short online survey (5 minutes). We will be asking you to fill this out 3 times a year so that we can stay updated on how things are going for you.  Click here to be taken to the survey. Thank you in advance for your input!
T-Shirts
 
This month volunteers donated 235 hours to JFS!  Thanks to everyone for all your hard work, we couldn't do all that we do without you! Here is a list of volunteers who reached the 20 hour mark this month and are now eligible for a t-shirt:
  • Megan Levine
There are many of you who have reached the 20 hour mark in previous months who have not collected your t-shirt. If you would like to pick it up, please let me know and we can have it ready for you! Congratulations everyone! 

Seize the Dream Silent Auction
 
On May 4th, JFS will be hosting the annual Seize the Dream gala. A new feature this year is an online silent auction before the event from April 21st-May 1st. Help JFS fund-raise by bidding on items or sharing with friends, because anyone can bid, even someone living in California!  We have items ranging from restaurant gift certificates, hotel stays, IPADs, and more! You can visit the auction siteto learn more, and return to it on April 21st to start bidding!
 

 
Upcoming Opportunities

Become a Mentor:  JFS is looking for volunteers to help with Math Academy and All Stars. Volunteers are needed on Mondays and Tuesdays from 2:45-5:15. You can learn more about the program here. Please help spread the word!  
 
Interview Prep: We are looking for a volunteer to help with interview preparation with the clients in our Ready for Success program. This would be a once a week pilot on Thursdays. 
 
Friendly Visitors: Volunteers needed to help alleviate isolation and increase socialization for elder adults.  Visit once a week providing them with companionship and socialization. This could be visiting just to chat, going to see a movie, going out to eat, or any other activity!  Check out the Friendly Visitor website to learn more and apply.
 
If you are interested in any of these positions, please contact Sarah Roth, 508-875-3100 x320 or [email protected].
Did you know that JFS...

 
 
  • Has an Affordable Geriatric Care Management program?
  • Has been building families through Adoption Choices since 1982?
    • Adoption Choices, is a licensed adoption program that is designed to meet the needs of the adoptive parents, birth parents, and adopted persons by providing a wide range of education and counseling services in a progressive program.  Visit our website to learn more!
 
"It's not what one says, but rather what one does that makes a difference in the world." - Traditional Saying


Thanks everyone for your commitment and support of JFS! Please help spread the word about all the great opportunities!

Regards,
Sarah Roth, MSW
JFS of Metrowest
508-875-3100 x 320
spring-word-flowers.jpg
STAY CONNECTED

Facebook    Twitter    LinkedIn    Pinterest