Volunteer Spotlight

Ed Wammack

How long have you been volunteering at St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center?

I began volunteering in September of 2019

Why did you decide to become a volunteer?

 My daughter, Kelsey, is a student at SMSC. After retiring in June of 2019, I wanted to give some of my free time to a worthy cause like St. Madeleine Sophies Center. I was also very interested in seeing where Kelsey spent a lot of her time each week.

What are your favorite things about volunteering?

 I have enjoyed a lot of things, but there are 3 things in particular that have been enjoyable:

1) Working as an Aide to Dolores Knight in the Occupational Opportunities class each week. She makes the class fun and interesting for all of us!

2) Feeling a part of the community more and more each week. The students have shown a genuine interest in who I am and have been very welcoming and kind!

3) Watching how Kelsey interacts with so many other people. This is a side of her I had not seen before. I can now relate much better to her day-to-day experiences.

Volunteer Spotlight

Patricia Wahle

How long have you been volunteering at St Madeleine Sophie’s Center?

I came aboard in August this year.  I first heard about SMSC while visiting Sophie’s Gallery in Kensington for the first time a couple of months earlier, and knew I had to check it out!

Why did you decide to become a volunteer?

I decided to become a volunteer after I toured the main campus and Sophie’s Gallery.  Erica gave me a lot of great information on the tour and she was totally enthusiastic about SMSC. But it was the students and participants who came up to introduce themselves that just got to my heart. They were the reason I decided to volunteer. I just had to know more about these unbelievably wonderful people! There was such a positive vibe, a joyfulness, and a special spirit everywhere – the intention to be friendly and kind and a willingness to do their best. Why wouldn’t someone want to volunteer here? I call SMSC my “HAPPY” place.

What are your favorite things about volunteering?

My 2 favorite things about volunteering at SMSC are getting to know the amazingly dedicated staff, and getting to know and assist the wonderful students. I have trouble remembering everyone’s name, but everybody is happy to remind me and they are so, so, kind and friendly. I know that I am learning and experiencing so much through helping the students – much more than I am contributing for sure!

Learn all about Kristen Mckenny and read some amazing articles written by SMSC Students!

Check it out here –> January Gazette

 Volunteer Spotlight

Shira Villalta

Intern

How long have you been volunteering at St Madeleine Sophie’s Center?

 I have been interning through National University at SMSC for just a few weeks now and it has been great so far.

Why did you decide to become a volunteer?

I decided to intern at SMSC because of the chance to work hands-on in a professional environment to help me learn more about the career path that I’m pursuing. This internship also gives me an opportunity to meet different people with diverse leadership styles.

What is your favorite thing about volunteering?

My favorite thing is the amazing and caring people that are at SMSC from staff, to the students, to upper level management. I like how they value and care for students by helping them accomplish something. I am amazed by their dedication.