Congratulations to our April Volunteers of the Month, Alyssa and Hailey. Volunteer services manager Michele Gingras commented: “Alyssa and Hailey are an excellent addition to the volunteer team at Shea. They show up each week with bright smiles and a heartfelt commitment to building meaningful client connections.”
Alyssa, Jericho, and Hailey
Why we love them: Alyssa and Hailey bring their bright smiles and uplifting energy every Tuesday, building connections with our clients effortlessly. We’re fortunate to have this sister duo on our volunteer team!
Road to The Shea Center: Alyssa: “I originally learned about The Shea Center from my dad and a couple of friends who were all volunteers. From every person I talked to who volunteered here, I realized that this is a place where transformation and growth were possible amidst the warm, welcoming environment of dedicated volunteers.” Hailey: “I was introduced to The Shea Center by my dad, Aron Taylor, but my family has been involved at Shea since I was young.”
Years of Service: Hailey and Alyssa have volunteered as sidewalkers for over a year.
Lessons learned: Hailey: “I have learned during my time here that serving others with the joy of the Lord not only blesses the people I interact with but also uplifts me in many ways.” Alyssa: “I’ve learned that giving my time to volunteer at The Shea Center has developed me in more ways than I could have ever imagined. I’m amazed to see how my client, Jahoon, has grown in her confidence and riding abilities. I have been influenced to radiate Jahoon’s infectious, loving nature to the rest of the world around me outside of The Shea Center.”
Favorite Shea Center memories: Alyssa: “Feeding Jericho carrots, during which he never fails to amaze us with his messy eating. Also, giving Jericho cuddles at the end of each lesson.” Hailey: “One of my favorite memories is witnessing my current client, Alex, develop new social skills and blossom into the joyous boy we all love. He has grown so much, and I have noticed a significant change in his ability to talk and laugh and to begin to showcase his creative sense of humor and his love for anything related to the movie Cars.”
When not at Shea, she can be found doing this: Hailey: “I am a junior at Crean Lutheran High School, and I love being with family and friends and doing anything outdoors.” Alyssa: “Outside of volunteering, I love going to the beach, hiking, traveling, and working out.”
She finds her bliss…: Alyssa: “Getting to spend quality time with my family and friends.” Hailey: “Considering I love people and being out in nature, the Shea Center is my happy place as I get to serve others while walking around in the beautiful scenery of Shea. It brings me so much joy and peace that I couldn’t imagine spending my Tuesdays elsewhere.”
