On Tuesday, May 29th, 2012, I volunteered at the Mattoon Area Public Action to Deliver (PADS). I volunteered with another classmate in the FCS 4840 class. We arrived at 1pm and got right to work. Glenn, the Mattoon Area PADS director was the only one at the facility. He was very friendly and told us what he wanted us to do. Unfortunately, we got there as soon as lunch was over so we didn't get to see any of the people that the shelter helps. I cleaned the counters, wiped down stoves and other surfaces, while my classmate washed dishes and straightened up the kitchen area. Next, Glenn had us get started on dinner for the next group of people that were coming. I was a little shocked when he told us to cook because most places that I hear people talk about will assign them other duties such as secretarial work and working with the people at the shelter. It put me at ease because, as we cooked macaroni salad and boiled chicken for chicken sandwiches, we got a little more acquainted with Glenn and what PADS was all about. Mattoon Area PADS is a non profit facility. They provide breakfast, lunch, and dinner three times a day except on Fridays. They also provide shelter for families everyday of the week. We all laughed and got to know a little about each other. He also wanted us to go grocery shopping with him. When we got back, we continued to talk more about PADS and the type of work that he does for the homeless and those in need of assistance.
This volunteering opportunity made me think and relate back to many classes that I have taken as an FCS major. In most of my classes we learn about providing resources for those living in poverty and for those who are less fortunate. This shelter is a prime example of what we need in more communities across the country especially, in my neighborhood. There are many people who don't have the opportunity of eating three meals a day and having a place to lay their head at night. Glenn sees familiar faces all of the time and says he just opens up to them so that they can feel as if they are at home. PADS is a wonderful program that a lot of communities can gain from. They are reliable, comforting, and provide services that can change one's life. I would come back and volunteer again because I want to get a chance to help Glenn and to also see the different people that come in and out of the shelter. I learned to appreciate every opportunity and blessing that comes my way. There are people worse off than I am and to know that I was able to help someone eat a meal later on that night made my day complete. I will always remember this experience.
Jorjoh K Joof
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