Volunteers Making a Difference

On February 25, 2010, Aubrey, a resident at MCH, met her new mentor, Kelsie. A bright and engaging Ph.D. student, Kelsie had completed an internship in the psychology department at MCH and wanted to become a volunteer mentor. Kelsie remembered that some of her most valuable relationships as an adolescent were with people who went out of their way to offer support. As an adult, she wanted to pay it forward by reaching out to young people.

When they’re together, Aubrey and Kelsie enjoy baking, going out to eat and rock climbing. Some of their most valuable moments are spent talking about the joys and struggles in their lives. As they recently celebrated their first year as friends, they reflected fondly on their experiences. Both feel like they’ve known each other longer because their relationship is so strong, and they’re eager to see what the next year will bring. As their relationship continues to grow, the hope is that Kelsie will impact Aubrey as much as Aubrey impacts her.

MCH offers volunteer opportunities that enable adult role models to build positive, healthy relationships with youth in residential care. The Home’s greatest volunteer need is one-on-one mentors like Kelsie. Mentors build meaningful relationships with youth through weekly visits. These visits can involve tutoring, attending sporting events, participating in local social or cultural events, or spending time together on an activity or project of mutual interest. Nearly thirty youth living in MCH’s residential programs are waiting for a mentor. Volunteer opportunities are also available in religious education, recreation and athletics.

The Volunteer Services Department wants to use your strengths and skills to enrich the lives of the youth at the Home. To learn more about the volunteer program at Methodist Children’s Home, please contact: Katie Wolfe, Volunteer Services Coordinator, at 254.755.4694 or kwolfe@mchwaco.org.