I’m a retired technology executive who’s lived in the East Bay since the late-90’s. My wife & I raised two kids in Danville while I commuted into the city and around the Bay for work.
The reality of people forced to live on the streets has been a persistent problem throughout the Bay Area, and it’s always torn at me that in such a wealthy area we continue to see such adversity. Like many of us, I’ve asked myself how I can help – really help make a lasting impact. I volunteered with a large shelter organization in San Francisco when I worked in the city, but when I stopped commuting, I looked for organizations closer to home where I could re-engage.
He volunteers at Trinity Center because:
When looking for a place to invest my time & capabilities, 3 things were important to me:
- They provide compassionate and respectful assistance
- The mission and work is focused on improving lives and moving people out of homelessness
- I felt I could use my skills and experience to make a difference
I found Trinity Center when it was a small organization with a big heart and big ambitions to turn the tide of homelessness in Contra Costa. I started by organizing a group from my church to provide meals – initially for the winter shelter program and now monthly throughout the rest of the year. Over the years, Trinity Center has grown into a new building with an industrial kitchen, a professional staff of case workers and support, and a welcoming attitude supportive of it’s volunteers. I’ve continually heard from the people who volunteer with me that one of the best experiences is getting to know the members at Trinity Center, learning a bit about their lives, and recognizing them as neighbors who are struggling but working to get back on their feet.
He joined the Board at Trinity Center because:
Trinity Center has a strong, professional staff and Board of Directors who have recently completed a strategic plan to expand their unique services in coordination with local governments and other service organizations. I joined the Board because I believe there is an opportunity for me to help the organization grow and have a greater impact in the community. We’re currently exploring options to expand services, locations, and hours, and evaluating how we can bring even more volunteers into the organization.