Volunteer Newsletter

July 2024

Surviving the Arizona Summer

With the Arizona summer in full effect, we recognize the dedication and commitment of you- our faithful volunteers! Your willingness to stay and work through the challenging conditions demonstrates your passion and dedication to our mission and is making an impact on families like Symone’s. Symone is a single mother of two children. She has been a resident since February.

“Since moving in I have accomplished so much just from being able to not stress about living on the streets. Due to the provision of shelter, safety, and food, I can focus on achieving dreams I’ve chased for years. I recently published my first novel and bought a car! The first time I have owned anything in my life. Thank you House of Refuge for continuing to support me and my family!”

Your efforts are invaluable, and we are truly fortunate to have you as part of our team. As part of the team, we want to remind you of some essential tips to beat the heat:

Keep Protected from the Sun: Shield yourself from the harsh sun with sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, protective clothing, and umbrellas.

Stay Hydrated: Water is your best friend. As highlighted by a Baylor College of Medicine article from August 9, 2021, you're already on the brink of dehydration if you're feeling parched. Drink water regularly throughout the day to stay refreshed.

Be Safe in Dust Storms: Pull over safely and turn off your vehicle's lights if you encounter a dust storm. Quick action is crucial as these storms move fast.

Drive Carefully in the Rain: Rain can make roads slippery due to lifted grease. Exercise caution while driving.

Keep Your Car Cool: Combat the heat in your car by rolling down the passenger-side window and gently opening and closing the driver-side door to let out the hot air.

Hiking Safety: Choose early morning or evening hikes to avoid the intense midday heat. Remember, helicopter rescues can be pricey!

Once again, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your exceptional dedication and perseverance.

Inspiration Station

"Unity is not equal to being, but is the unifying principle of being."

- Marsilio Ficino

Volunteer Opportunities

We urgently need volunteers to help at our donation center on Saturdays. Teens over 15 are encouraged to join us during summer break. It's a great way to make a difference in the community while gaining valuable experience.

Would you or your teen be willing to generously volunteer your time to support and uplift our community?

Email McKenzie

Greatest Needs

Toilet Paper
Size 3t-4t Pull-ups
Size 4t-5t Pull-ups
Size 6 Diapers
Overnight diapers (all sizes)
Baby wipes
Canned pasta
Canned meats
Spaghetti sauce
Ramen
Deodorant (spray and roll-on)
Cleaning supplies
Laundry detergent
Toothpaste (full size)

Hero of The Heart

Volunteer Spotlight

Donna Hunter & Terry McLenna

Department: Garden

This month, we honor our Garden Gurus, Donna Hunter and Terry McLenna, who have captured our hearts with their dedication. Hailing from Wisconsin and Pennsylvania, respectively, they found their passion for gardening and helping others in Arizona. Together, they have cultivated a vibrant space where a variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs thrive harmoniously. Their green thumbs and positive energy have not only provided fresh produce but also invaluable gardening tips to our residents and staff.

Recently, a resident moved near the garden and witnessed firsthand the care and effort Donna and Terry and thanked them for creating a beautiful morning view from their backyard. They emphasize the collective impact of small actions, believing in the power of community efforts to support families. They find fulfillment in contributing to such meaningful projects.

Their friendship, nurtured through their shared love of gardening, adds an extra layer of warmth to their volunteerism.

Donna and Terry, thank you for generously sharing your time, passion, and expertise with our garden. Your dedication truly enhances our community!

Emergency Need

Toilet paper is an essential item urgently needed by the families we support. While it may seem ordinary to many, it plays a crucial role in maintaining dignity and hygiene for those relying on our services. Will you join us in making a difference?

Tell Us About You

Please complete this quick and simple survey linked below. We want to learn more about you!

Survey

Greatest Needs Online

Help us fill some of our greatest needs from the comfort of home by visiting our MyRegistry list.

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Volunteer Tour

Share our mission with your family and friends! Email McKenzie to schedule a group tour!

Email McKenzie

Arizona Charitable Tax Credit

Donations to House of Refuge may be used towards your allowable contribution for the Qualified Charitable Organization Tax Credit (QCO), which has increased to $470 for single filing and $938 for joint filing.

Please consult your tax advisor.

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