The Loop - California (April 2024)

THE LOOP

A COLLECTION OF STORIES FROM AROUND CALIFORNIA

ISSUE 131VOLUME APRIL11 2024

WestCare Family,

National Volunteer Week, observed from April 14 to April 20, is a poignant reminder of the significance of volunteering within our local communities. Volunteers play a vital role in enriching lives, addressing societal challenges, and fostering a sense of unity among diverse groups. Their selfless acts of service contribute to the well-being and resilience of society as a whole.

In reflecting on National Volunteer Week, we can't help but marvel at the incredible impact volunteers have had on WestCare, its team members, and more importantly the clients we serve. Their dedication and generosity have touched countless lives, leaving a lasting imprint on our collective wellbeing.

Over the years, volunteers have been instrumental in spearheading various initiatives, ranging from landscape projects that beautify our programs to pillow drives that provide comfort to those in need. They've facilitated yoga classes, offering moments of relaxation and rejuvenation to individuals seeking solace. And let's not forget the joyous celebrations they've orchestrated for our client graduations, providing entertainment and encouragement as they mark significant milestones in their lives.

In the local context, volunteering is instrumental in tackling pressing issues and supporting those in need. As we commemorate National Volunteer Week, it's essential to recognize the myriad benefits that volunteering brings to recipients of aid and the volunteers themselves. Through volunteering, individuals can grow personally, develop new skills, and forge meaningful connections within their community. Volunteering also promotes empathy, understanding, and a culture of kindness and inclusion. By engaging in acts of service, volunteers help break down barriers and create a more cohesive and compassionate society.

If you're eager to make a difference in your local community, National Volunteer Week serves as an ideal moment to get involved and to stay involved throughout the year! If you would like to find out ways that you can volunteer with WestCare, please email us at: volunteer.ca@westcare.com

As we celebrate National Volunteer Week, let's honor the dedication and generosity of volunteers everywhere. Together, through the power of volunteering, we can create a brighter, more inclusive, and compassionate world for all.

Department Spotlight: Volunteer Opportunities with Wings Advocacy Fresno

Brittany Sosa, Community Relations Manager - WestCare California

Wings Advocacy Fresno, a project of WestCare, is a non-profit organization powered by volunteers dedicated to supporting families, Veterans, women and children fleeing domestic violence, and individuals transitioning into housing through local social service agencies. Our mission is simple yet profound: Delivering dignity and hope to newly housed families. We believe that every human being has a right to shelter.

In 2023, we established a valuable partnership with Amazon, collaborating closely with their donation department. Thanks to Gerald Esquivel's and Rose Yuenger's generosity, Amazon contributes essential items for our welcome baskets. These baskets are designed to provide comfort and support to newly housed families, containing necessities like laundry detergent, bath products, shampoo, conditioner, and household cleaning supplies such as dish soap and bathroom cleaners.

On March 28, 2024, Gerald Esquivel and Rose Yuenger joined us on a delivery day, witnessing their donations' firsthand impact. Their support through Amazon has been instrumental in bringing relief to these families during a critical time of transition.

For more information on volunteer opportunities with Wings Advocacy Fresno and WestCare California, please contact volunteer.ca@westcare.com

Volunteer Kudos

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all 20 of our dedicated volunteers whose tireless efforts contribute to the ongoing success of Wings Advocacy Fresno. Among them, Debbie Ockey and Mary Ann Quann stand out as vital pillars, diligently supporting various aspects of Wings‘ operations. Specifically, they play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of our weekly delivery system. Wings owes a significant debt of gratitude to these volunteers whose unwavering commitment and selfless dedication are the backbone of the program.

Donation Requests

We are constantly exploring avenues to provide financial backing for Wings Advocacy Fresno, recognizing the persistent need for the following essential items:

Pillows Mattresses Silverware Bed Sheet Sets

Currently, we are actively engaging with potential donors who are open to making a minimum monthly pledge of $20.00. Your generous support will directly address these pressing needs, guaranteeing the comfort and welfare of the individuals under our care. With 1,000 people contributing a minimum of $16.67 per month, we can fully sustain Wings Advocacy Fresno for the entire year! Please contact giving.ca@westcare.com for more information.

To support today, please scan the code below:

SpringFest at the Living Room

This past March, The Living Room hosted their SpringFest event for our clients to celebrate all things that occur during the Spring season. This event allows the clients of The Living Room to have a safe space while they celebrate with friends and other members of the community.

Thank you to our staff at MLK Residential for allowing our male clients in recovery to enjoy an Easter egg hunt, celebrate the joy of recovery during the month of April, and take part in sober alternatives that this journey in recovery can offer. Each egg was labeled with a number that matched to treats and prizes for our clients.

Easter at MLK Residential

Celebrating Families! Holds Their Spring Graduation

Spring Door Decorating Contest

Congratulations to our Childcare Workers, Chelsea Gilmore, Aly Woodward, and Ebonia King from The Learning Center at MLK Residential for winning the Spring Door Decorating Contest! Throughout this month and late March, the clients and staff participated in this contest which encouraged their creativity during this season. Each door was decorated uniquely and graced the halls of MLK Residential for everyone to see!

Earlier this month, our Celebrating Families! program held its spring graduation for 14 participants. We congratulate each of the families who successfully completed our 16-week program. We are proud of each and every one of you for taking steps to create a healthier and more sober environment for you and your families.

For more information about our Celebrating Families! program, please email at celebratingfamilies@westcare.com or call (559) 237-3420, ext. 20377.

A huge kudos to our February CORE Award Recipients Christina Madrid Dylan Jenkins, and Gurvir Sodi, for embodying the trait of “Dedication” in their respective roles here at WestCare. Belmont Health and Wellness facility, always goes above and beyond for her peers, and ensures that clients are being helped. MLK Residential, always shows up daily with a focused, calm energy and gets the job done with his tireless dedication and steadfast efforts Christina, a Cook at MLK Residential, always shows off her radiant personality and is passionate about uplifting our male and female clients in recovery. Let’s give it up to these wonderful human beings for their efforts and dedication!

Dylan Jenkins

Christina Madrid