Meet Anne, Volunteer

First contact

"In October, 2001, I read the special insert in the Toronto Star about the Sisters of St. Joseph of Toronto's 150th anniversary and their many ministries. I was working on my Masters in Ministry and Spirituality courses at Regis College and needed to do a field placement. I was very impressed with the Sisters' work. I met with them the following spring, and started my practicum down at their storefront program on Queen St., Mustard Seed, in July."

Experiences

"When the affordable apartments at Fontbonne Place were completed, I discovered that many of the women coming in would be requiring furniture. Someone was needed to help with this. So I become the "furniture lady." People who donated were so generous, dropping boxes with us. I spent September and October opening boxes and sorting them. In November, as the women started moving in, I went about distributing the donations like Santa.

Then I saw the wicker baskets at the Dixie Value Mall and thought of "Baskets of Welcome." I had this idea that everyone could receive one, and each basket could contain things everyone needs to start up again. I found 18 women—teacher friends, family, and a group in Mississauga—to help. I gave people the dates by which the baskets needed to be returned. It gave the women in community a chance to do something nice for someone starting over. Each basket had a woman's name and the word "welcome" on it. One of the residents has since framed the card on her basket."

Working with the Sisters

"I am so thankful that I read that insert! The Sisters of St. Joseph continue to vision forward. They ask the question: "What can we be about now?" It's a great model for me to look at."

Benefits of Volunteering

"I have been blessed and moved and invigorated."

To find out more, go to Volunteers for Outreach Programs