Creating Impact: Volunteer Stories

Volunteering plays a significant role in addressing social issues and creating a positive impact on communities in need. At Harvest912, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing footcare services to the homeless, volunteers are at the heart of our outreach and have been a key driver of our success in reaching those in need. In this blog post, we will delve into some inspiring volunteer stories that have helped Harvest912 change lives...one sole at a time!

Volunteering with Harvest912 not only changes the lives of our guests, but also of our volunteers! Caroline V., a regular volunteer at Harvest912 foot care clinics had this to say.

"The biggest way I think that I've been impacted by volunteering with Harvest is just hearing the stories of the people that come in. You know, you look at a homeless person and you think, oh, they must have done something really bad to get to this point, but in reality they're just people and, you know, people who have fallen on difficult times or bad luck and end up where they are. It's been very humbling to hear their stories and also just very eye opening to see people at multiple clinics and get to know them and build friendships with them. It's just very humanizing to know a group of people that we would normally look at on the street and say, oh, I don't really want to associate with them and realize, wow, they're just like me in a lot of ways. "

Other volunteer partnerships that affect both our guests and our volunteers include our remarkable medical volunteers. This team of committed physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and RNs willingly dedicates their time at each mobile clinic to assist those who might lack the resources or confidence to visit their offices. They build relationships that not only enhance the clinic experience but also increase the likelihood that our guests will feel at ease visiting these doctors in a more conventional medical setting. According to our medical director, Dr. Anthony Colonna,

"Patient interactions are very different at the mobile clinic. I treat many underprivileged individuals in the office and have noticed that the ones whom I meet first outside of the office have a more profound trusting relationship with me as a healthcare provider. I feel as though when I have the opportunity to interact with these patients on a more personal level in a more approachable atmosphere it allows them to build a different type of trust."

We are fortunate to have established robust collaborative volunteer partnerships with both local private practice physicians and the LECOM School of Podiatric Medicine. Their Residents and Medical Students have enthusiastically supported our mobile clinics, allowing them to contribute to the community, assist those in need, and acquire valuable clinical experience.

These volunteer stories highlight the power of collaboration and community engagement in creating a meaningful impact on the lives of our unhoused neighbors. By partnering with individuals, groups, and businesses who share a commitment to serving those in need, Harvest912 has been able to expand its reach and enhance its support for our neighbors in need. As Harvest912 continues to foster relationships with volunteers and supporters, it paves the way for a brighter future for the individuals we serve.

A strong volunteer program is crucial not only for the success of organizations like Harvest912 but also for fostering a more compassionate and inclusive society. Thanks to the commitment of our volunteers and partners, Harvest912 can significantly impact the lives of the people we assist. If you're interested in joining Harvest912 as a volunteer or supporter, we welcome you to be part of our mission to create positive change and help those in need.