Seeking to do good

 

Kathryn Newman-Renwick is this week's Volinspire volunteer of the week.

What inspired you to volunteer?

I became involved with volunteering with social justice causes and the marginalized of our community from a young age with my family and was involved with outreach at the First United Church of Kelowna. I have continued on my own and assist with their New Year’s Day dinner for our downtown neighbours and members of the community. My mother instilled in me the belief that it doesn't take a lot to make someone's day brighter. Seek always to do some good. Through the church, I became a regular volunteer at Inn From the Cold and have been volunteering there for 11 years. I have also recently become a member of their board of directors.

Which cause are you most passionate about?

I am most passionate about the marginalized, as well as bridging connections with those in need, whom often are disregarded and undervalued in our community, and the organizations and services that can provide the best support. 

Which organization do you most commonly volunteer for?

I mostly volunteer for Inn From the Cold as an overnight supervising volunteer. Being involved with how our services are run and organized gives me great insight into how the organization works within the community, how to better approach the services we offer, and how I can best contribute my time.

What does a typical volunteer shift look like?

At the Winter Shelter, each shift has two volunteers plus a staff person. Evening reception welcomes the guests and assists the staff. Food service purchases and prepares the evening’s meal and helps serve and clean afterwards. Overnight Stay, which is what I do, arrives for change over after the meal service and stays until morning, completes kitchen cleaning, makes lunches for those who work, assists those who can’t sleep, provides support for the overnight staff in case of emergencies, and preps for morning. Morning shift helps wake the guests, prepares/serves breakfast, assist guests to exit for the day and helps clean the shelter. 

What impact have you seen volunteers make in the community?

Without our numbers of extraordinary caring and willing volunteers, we wouldn’t be where we are today. It is through their hard work and commitment that we can continue to provide and grow the services we offer. We come together as a great team that believes in the necessity of altruistic care for those in need.

What is the most memorable experience you've had while volunteering?

Getting to know our guest, Arthur Cottie, who played a huge part in the creation and organization of our largest fundraiser and awareness celebration, the annual Arthur Cottie PUSH to End Homelessness. The event joins residents and businesses in a fun-filled decorated shopping cart race to show Kelowna cares about the homeless. Arthur’s presence is missed, but his outlook on life, even when he had little for himself, was the greatest gift he could have left us with.

How can people learn more or get involved?

We are always in need of volunteers and staff members. Our shelter relies largely on donations and the generosity of the community to stay open. We receive very little government funding and any contribution – material or financial – is appreciated. In September, we will be starting the interview process for staff and volunteers in preparation for the November opening. We also have other opportunities for volunteers beyond the shelter that run throughout the year. 

Is there anyone else you would like to recognize?

We get such wonderful support from so many in the community in so many different ways. All of those wonderful volunteers and staff, great and small, who donate their time or other means to be involved with Inn From the Cold really are the glue that holds our organization together. Jan Schulz, our executive director, deserves a nod of appreciation as she is the sail of this tall ship and keeps us on course.

Check out more volunteer opportunities at Volinspire.com.