Catholic Charities reaches more than 100,000 people in need each year. We are successful in our mission because of our donors, employees and volunteers.
More than 4,000 volunteers help Catholic Charities each year. Some only serve an hour or two, but others volunteer more than 20 hours per week. We are enriched by their contributions of volunteer hours that allow us to extend the reach of our mission to more people in need. Linda Tailleart, director of volunteer services said, “We are proud to be a volunteer-centric organization where volunteers are valued and recognized as partners at all levels. They help us make miracles happen every day!”
Volunteering at Catholic Charities
Robert Earl is one such volunteer. He first began volunteering in May 2015 in the Catholic Charities finance department. He is part of a team that scans financial documents and organizes them in the document management system.
“I really enjoy what I do, who I work with, and the ability to use my computer skills and attention to detail,” said Robert. “I like doing a good job, and I feel appreciated for my work.”
Robert’s supervisor, senior accountant Karen Snow says, “Robert has made priceless contributions to the finance department. When he takes on a project, he handles everything from start to finish.”
Tailleart said, “Robert is a joy to work with – his organized, thoughtful and kind ways make him a real hit as a Catholic Charities’ team member!”
Robert thought volunteering would be a great way to stay busy and avoid a gap in his resume while he looked for work. In his previous role, he worked as a receptionist. He knew his professionalism and office skills would be valuable to an organization as he searched for a new role.
Volunteer Makes Real Difference
He volunteered at other agencies but hadn’t found the right fit. “Catholic Charities was one of my top picks while I was researching places to volunteer. Due to their sterling reputation for outreach to the community's most vulnerable, I was eager to apply here, especially after I saw the easy commute and relevant position postings on their volunteer opportunities board,” said Robert.
Robert and his volunteer team were instrumental in helping with a recent audit. The team kept documents in order and helped manage the monumental task. “I couldn’t imagine getting through the audit with the volunteers,” said Snow.
Volunteering to Help Meet Needs
Robert’s Catholic faith is of utmost importance to him. He serves communion at his church, sings in the choir, helps in the lending library and is a Grand Knight in the Knights of Columbus. “It’s very obvious that as Christians, we are called to perform the corporal and spiritual works of mercy,” said Robert. Serving an organization that helps those in need is a way to help even more people than he could help on his own.
If you are interested in volunteering at Catholic Charities visit our volunteer page to learn more. We have volunteer opportunites for you to use your professional skills to make a difference.