Volunteer Reflections
The Half-Way Point By: Ken
Over the past few weeks I noticed I became extremely possessed with the idea of being able to improve the well-being of my clients. That is always easier said than done and at times became very frustrating and disturbing because I kept hearing our clients problems and they were adding up inside. I soon realized I was missing the purpose of my commitment of being a volunteer. I forgot that I am here back in Buffalo to change and better the life of myself through my interactions and understanding of the four tenants and my involvement with those who are marginalized. During these first six months I have been able to educate myself on social justice topics that are difficult to come to terms with. I am now able to fully understand how privileged the upbringing I enjoyed was.
Direct service with the poor gives me the opportunity to experience how their lives operate under the circumstances and the limitations they have to survive. Certain aspects that might seem easy for me to do, such as being able to keep an appointment, maintain my health, speak to people that have "power" or even how to keep a positive balance in my checking account are things that they struggle with. The continuous failures are frustrating and of course, a lot of patience and understanding from God is required to make my work more meaningful. Without his guiding spirit I might have become so overwhelmed with the struggles that the people I work with come across, that I may have felt obligated to "throw in the towel". But God has provided me with an uplifting spirit that, thanks to the support of my roommates, allows me to see that nothing is possible without his presence in my daily activities. Sometimes it is easy because many of the clients that we serve are good at heart and faith-filled people who are able to transmit satisfaction, gratitude and joy from the services Catholic Charities provides. However, there are times when that satisfaction does not come so easily and you are forced to struggle to earn the respect from your clients and from yourself.
Still, I think it is amazing how far I have progressed since September. I originally was one of those people with the stereotypical notions that if the poor just worked harder or learned how to read, write or learn the English language, then they would not be in the situation they are in. I realized with the interaction of clients and staff members there are many reasons for the clients to be in the circumstances they are in. The range from mental and physical disabilities to discrimination, lack of employment opportunities, inadequate education, fear of their safety from other people and natural elements and many other unfortunate circumstances and forces. The sisters and the volunteers at Catholic Charities do whatever is in their power and means necessary to help improve the morale of the people. Even the small changes or victories can result in a more positive outlook on life for the client. Examples include the sewing classes the Sr. Norma has conducted now three of the clients are working thanks to the program, moving in generously donated furniture, providing the clients with budget assistance and money management skills or cooking classes.
Sometimes we are their first and their last ray of hope. The reason they come to us is because of our concern for their well being. Simply, we care about them, and not many other people do. Once we stop caring then that gives them an excuse to stop caring about themselves. I use that sometimes as motivation and as a reminder for having to do whatever is necessary to serve our clients. At the same time, the idea of being that badly needed is scary, as it seems the client wants you to walk on water to help them.
Thankfully, I am able to come home to a loving house with my three roommates, which was been the most challenging for me because I am the only guy in the house. However, beyond all the "chick-flicks" it has been really enjoyable. My roommates and this program has taught me things that I will be able to incorporate in my own life once this year of service is complete. Although things have been quite busy and therefore difficult to recognize, it is amazing to see the changes over these past six months.