Paula and Jerry have been volunteering at the Samaritan Center since August of 2023. They moved back to Simi Valley in 2017 after retiring. They lived in England for work on what they thought would be a 2-year adventure turned into 8 fun years of working, traveling, and living in Europe. Paula mentioned after working with a child in foster care as a court appointed special advocate, she became more aware of the struggles of homelessness. Part of their return to Simi and their retirement was that they wanted to dedicate their time volunteering locally to an organization that supports the community.
Paula first came to the Samaritan Center to donate clothing and ask about the services the Samaritan Center provide. She stated that she was greeted by Diane, the Volunteer Coordinator, with such warmth and enthusiasm and was also given a tour of the Center. After meeting other volunteers and staff, Paula describes feeling very excited to begin volunteering herself.
Some of Jerry's volunteer tasks include prepping pantry boxes and assisting in the distribution during pantry hours. He also will occasionally assist in sorting and organizing incoming food donations while ensuring every item is well packaged and within the expiration date. Paula's volunteering consists of signing in clients during the breakfast distribution hour. She is the first friendly face many people see upon being greeted at the Samaritan Center.
We asked Paula and Jerry what they enjoy most about volunteering and they said the relationships that they have formed while working. They also mentioned that although busy times at the Center can be chaotic, everyone is so supportive of each other. Since volunteering at the Samaritan Center, Paula and Jerry said that they have learned so much about the dignity and struggle of those experiencing homelessness and that everyone's story is different.
We are so thankful for Paula and Jerry and all of their dedicated hard work. We are in awe for how they uphold every client and other volunteers with the utmost kindness and respect. Paula and Jerry have made a lasting impression to all those they have encountered at the Samaritan Center!