Rising Leader Reflects on Volunteering at Hub of Hope
The cold and wintery weather creates harsh challenges for individuals who are experiencing homelessness. At Project HOME’s Hub of Hope, staff and volunteers provide caring and compassionate service to everyone who visits The Hub. Whether it takes the form of a conversation with a case manager, a hot cup of coffee, or the respite of a shower, the Hub offers dignity to members of our community who may not receive it on the street. As a member of the Rising Leaders Committee, the call to action to volunteer is something we try to uplift every day.
Recently, I had the privilege of volunteering at the Hub alongside a group of my colleagues. This opportunity to serve came during one of the year's coldest days, a time when warmth and community were more necessary than ever.
Arriving at the Hub, the biting cold was a stark reminder of the day's significance. We weren't just there to help; we were there to make a difference. That morning, our team brought an abundance of donations including hats, scarves, blankets, toiletries and more. It was clear in every distribution that these small items – that are easy to overlook in our day-to-day lives – provided a larger sense of comfort that went a long way.
The heart of our day at Hub spent serving hot meals. Each dish handed out was more than just food—it was an offering genuine gesture of care. The gratitude we received in return was emotional, not just in words but in the relieved smiles of those who had braved the awful weather conditions for a nourishing meal.
I had the chance to speak with many Hub guests that day. Each person had a story, a reminder of the diverse journeys that had led them to this point. Listening to each guest, sharing laughs while comforting others that were in lower spirits, underscored the impact of personal connections and the simple, profound joy of being present for one another.
Equally inspiring was our interaction with the staff of Hub of Hope. Their dedication is evident in every task they undertake, every gentle word they exchange with guests of the Hub and knowing all by name. These are not just staff members; they’re passionate advocates for our city’s most vulnerable neighbors, committed to their roles no matter the challenges.
Talking to the staff, we learned about the ongoing needs and the continuous efforts required to keep the Hub running. You can visit the Hub of Hope’s Amazon Wishlist to help provide the essential items that have an immediate – and lasting – impact.
Leaving the Hub of Hope as the day wound down, my colleagues and I felt a mix of emotions. There was a deep sense of humility and gratitude, but also a profound reminder of the impact of collective action and the difference a single day's effort can make.
The Hub of Hope is a humbling reminder of the strength of community and the power of hope. More than just giving back, we had received so much from those we came to help—lessons in courage, perseverance, and the human capacity to care for strangers as if they are family.
This commitment to dignity is core value across Project HOME, and it is why I know our team will be returning to the Hub of Hope again in the future.
Volunteering at Project HOME’s Hub of Hope during the winter season is more than a day's activity; it is a transformative experience that influences how I view and engage with my community.
For anyone considering volunteering, remember that every small gesture counts and can contribute to a large change. You can make a difference by volunteering this winter season!
