“Many people think if you put the homeless in housing, it should be enough. But then there’s a realization that that’s not all there is. OSH is very encompassing and actually works on the goals and hopes of residents.”
When Tim began volunteering as a Daytime Assistant with OSH, he was searching for a way to better connect with his community. Working with housing made sense for him because he already had some experience in the area.
Now, after more than a year at the shelter, his reason for coming back week after week is simple: “The cause. The more I do, the more I see how important it is.”
Important, indeed! Sorting donations. Painting. Answering the door. While Tim’s tasks vary with every shift, they all ultimately help make sure that the shelter is well-organized and prepared when it opens for residents at 6pm.
“It’s about crossing the t‘s and dotting the i‘s,” Tim says about his experience here. “The small details need to get done. It’s all connected.” Whether he’s making a trip to the local food bank to pick-up items for breakfast and lunch or cleaning floors in our new property, it’s through those details that Tim and volunteers like him make OSH a welcoming and safe space for each resident.
What stands out the most for Tim in his time with us? He explains, “There’s always this question, ‘What more can we do?’ OSH keeps expanding, not just stopping with shelter. Many people think if you put [the homeless] in housing, it should be enough. But then there’s a realization that that’s not all there is. OSH is very encompassing and actually works on the goals and hopes [of residents]. I like learning more about the programs. Staff is really nice and appreciative, and all want to help.”
So what would Tim say if you were thinking of volunteering with OSH? Two words: “Do it!”
