National Volunteer Week allows us to recognize, celebrate, and thank the incredible volunteers across the country who selflessly give their time and energy to make invaluable contributions to our work at The Salvation Army Thrift Store. This year, National Volunteer Week runs from April 24-30 and we are sharing the story of one of our exceptional volunteers as part of our volunteer appreciation: Miranda.
Miranda has been a volunteer with The Salvation Army Thrift Store since 2019. Every week on three separate days, she visits the Milton Thrift Store for an hour with her support worker. Miranda is a 22-year-old high-functioning autistic woman, who enjoys volunteering and connecting with our welcoming store staff and other members in the Milton community. She looks forward to going to the store and helping with the tasks assigned to her, including fixing clothing on racks and arranging houseware items. Visiting the store is a fun past time for her and something different to break up the day.
In 2020, Miranda earned her high-school diploma. As part of her education, she learned valuable life skills such as how to work with others in the school cafeteria, which she has applied to her volunteering. It was hard for Miranda during COVID as the store was closed. But when their doors re-opened, she was more than ready to volunteer again.
“She’s enjoying it and she’s coming back happy explaining what she’s doing in the store,” shared her mother. “It’s so positive for the family too.”
Miranda loves the staff and The Salvation Army Thrift Store apron and hopes to wear it one day. Thank you Miranda for being such a great addition to our team!
A Special Shout Out to Ted–another of our wonderful volunteers!
In the fall of 2018, Ted began volunteering at our Pickering Thrift Store. He was drawn to The Salvation Army because it is a Christian organization that welcomes all people. As a retiree, Ted appreciates the flexibility the store offers him as it allows him to build his own schedule.
Ted particularly enjoys working with books and being exposed to different authors. He also enjoys collecting beer mugs, which he uses at his summertime cottage! What he finds most fulfilling about the role is the social aspect and being able to help Guests find the items they are looking for.
As Clayton Newitt, Retail District Manager of our Toronto East District says, “We are so very grateful to know Ted through these shared goals! With many thanks to Ted!”
And many thanks to all of our selfless volunteers across the country who are helping us build stronger communities together.
Happy National Volunteer Week!
