Sometimes our volunteers connect with our organization because of something they’ve experienced in their own lives. Shane is one of those volunteers who has taken his own past loss and transformed it into helping others. We are fortunate and grateful to have him helping DfD.

1. How did you learn about Dolls for Daughters® and Kenzi’s Kidz?

Through Emily Vera. Emily is a mutual friend of Jessica, my wife, and I. Emily spoke very highly about DfD and we started attending some of the fundraising events.

2. Why did you decide to volunteer with Dolls for Daughters®?

It is a cause I believe in and the story of its origination hits close to home. My wife and I suffered multiple pregnancy losses. We think it is remarkable to take that grief and turn it into something positive. I love that it is a local organization benefiting the community that I live in.

3. How long have you been a volunteer with Dolls for Daughters®?

For nearly a year.

4. What is your most memorable experience volunteering with Dolls for Daughters® and which event was it at?

Volunteering at the 2012 Toy Shop. There were thousands of people there waiting. It was hard not to feel overwhelmed by the amount of people in need in our community.

5. Have you participated in any fundraising event that Dolls for Daughters® had held?

Absolutely! I have attended the bowl-a-thon and silent auction. Both were fun events and I am excited to attend again in the future.

6. Have you shared your volunteer experience with your friends and family? If so, what was their reaction?

Yes. It’s an organization I am proud to be a part of. Just a few days ago, I asked a friend if he would want to volunteer at the Toy Shop. We discussed the organization and he is excited to help. 

7. If you did share your experience, have any of your friends or family become Dolls for Daughters® volunteers because of it?

Yes. My brother and a co-worker of mine volunteered at the 2012 Toy Shop with me. A colleague of mine also donated services to the 2012 Toy Shop. This year I have additional people interested in volunteering at the 2013 Toy Shop.

8. With so many organizations in need of volunteers, what suggestions or advice do you have for people who consider volunteering, especially when it comes to choosing where to offer their help?

Let’s face it, everyone’s time is valuable. When you volunteer you take time away from your family, friends and other day-to-day commitments, so you should volunteer your time for something that you enjoy or a cause you believe in. The organization should be thankful to receive your help—whether it is for a few hours, a day or on a recurring basis; and you should be thankful to have the time you have to give!