During this month of giving and gratitude, it only seems fitting that we highlight our Donation Resource Center (DRC).
It is often true that our participants come to us with nothing but the clothes they are wearing. We offer an on-site resource center where participants can pick out new and gently used items for themselves and their families, free of charge.
Meet our Resource Development Coordinator, Amy Schulz.
Amy works hard every day to make sure every participant who walks through the DRC doors leaves feeling loved and cared for. She once had a participant tell her, “I love the shopping, but you are the reason I like being here so much”. Her goal is to make the shopping experience at the DRC similar to what shopping at any other store would be but with extra care. The DRC has everything a participant might need, from hygiene and beauty products to clothing and furniture. Thanks to our generous donors, our participants are able to support their families in a way they might not have been able to before.
Volunteers are an essential component of the DRC’s success.
This year, we have received almost $491,927 worth of in-kind donations. Without the support of our volunteers sorting and distributing these donations, our participants would have far less access to the new items coming in each and every day. The DRC’s intern, Kerrigan, plays a big role in maintaining the order of the warehouse and shopping space. Kerrigan was connected with us through our parent organization Jewish Family and Children Service’s (JFCS) Real World Job Development Program. This program has helped countless teens learn how to apply their knowledge and skills to find successful employment. Kerrigan values her time and experience at Sojourner Center largely due to the people she works with and the mission of Sojourner Center. She stated, “This place attracts a certain type of person. Everyone is always giving and extremely kind.”
The DRC is a huge part of Sojourner Center and we are extremely grateful for all of the staff,
volunteers, and donors that make it a reality. If you wish to contribute to or volunteer with this wonderful program, visit our website to learn more.
November 2022
Read More
- Discover The Power of Generosity
- We Are Thankful For YOU
- A Participant’s Journey With The Donation Resource Center
- Domestic Violence Awareness Month Recap