Volunteer Service

I have done my volunteer work at PADS (Public Action to Deliver Shelter) in Mattoon. PADS provides shelter, hot meals, and guidance through various agencies of Coles County. We have learned how family live in poverty. We have also learned the different resources that are available for individuals or families that live in poverty. Some people are qualified to receive some aids from the government. They receive aids such as food stamp, health insurance etc. but it seems as others are not qualified for these kinds of aids. Those who are not are receiving support somehow. Providing a shelter and food for these people is one way that the government is doing to help these people. PADS provides shelter, meal for people. Some people go there every day to eat. They go there twice a day, for lunch and dinner. They even sleep there sometimes. There is one large room for them and it is divided into three sections, one section was for women and the other two were for men.  There is a bathroom there to take their shower. They can even do their laundries in that shelter. I networked with other professionals in some ways.  The professional provide the service, I did not provide any service but I was at one of the shelter to help, by preparing the meal for people who go to the shelter to get their daily meal. Professionals provide help for people who are in need. Even though people who go there to receive the service were not there to thank me for cooking the meal for them, they will still appreciate my help because I used my time to prepare a meal for them. Even the community will appreciate someone for doing a good thing. Helping one another is not a bad thing. And it is never a waste of time. The community will always appreciate the kindness of its people.

I have never participated in this kind of service, but I was glad that I did. Somehow I felt sorry for these people then I realized that I don’t have to pity anyone. Anyone can end in this situation. No one knows what brought them there, meaning no one knows how they end being in that situation (living in poverty). And as future professional, I don’t have to pity anyone but instead find a solution to their problem. I was glad I helped in cooking their meal, and I am will to keep helping. I actually told the director that I will come again to help cook the meal. I will provide supplies next time I go there. This will be another way that I can help.

Maguy Kanam