For Kim, becoming a volunteer with The Center for Volunteer Caregiving felt like the natural next step in a journey that had already touched her life deeply. Years ago, her mother needed round-the-clock care. Kim and her father were the primary caregivers and, although they knew they needed extra help, asking for it was difficult. One day, Kim read an article about The Center and reached out. She shared the idea with her parents, who were hesitant at first, but eventually agreed to give volunteer support a try.
Kim said that simple decision opened the door to many beautiful and meaningful things. Her mother was matched with a volunteer, Vanessa, and their connection was instant. Vanessa became Kim’s mother’s “last new friend,” someone who made her laugh, shared stories, and offered companionship in a way that was natural and easy. Kim recalled how much her mom looked forward to their visits and how those visits gave her father the gift of time to care for his own needs. The support was a lifeline for their family. “I am just so grateful for everyone who helped us,” she said. Vanessa was even there on the day Kim’s mother passed. They laughed together and shared inside jokes just hours before she passed — a memory Kim will never forget.
Because of that experience, The Center holds a special place in Kim’s heart. Kim knew she wanted to give back in the same way. “I wanted to volunteer with The Center so that I can be someone’s Vanessa,” she shared. She wanted to give a family caregiver the time to get away and know their loved one is in safe hands.
When Kim was matched with her current care receiver, the connection was immediate. “I am so happy to be friends with her,” Kim said. “I get to be a person she can share her life with.” She felt that volunteering in caregiver respite gave her the opportunity to not only support a care receiver, but also to support their family. And she encouraged others to make the commitment to volunteer with The Center. “It has been such a blessing. If you are thinking about [volunteering], just make the call. The sooner the better. It is such an uplifting experience.”
Outside of volunteering, Kim spends time with her family, including her husband and three daughters, as well as their labradoodle. She is passionate about supporting individuals who are blind, which she pursued through both her work in Special Education and the nonprofit she leads. Life keeps her busy, but she always makes time for the things she believes matter most.
Kim’s compassion, gratitude, and genuine warmth have shaped her volunteering experience. Today, she is grateful for the chance to support another family just as her own was supported, and she looks forward to the long-term friendship that continues to grow from one simple “yes”.
