Kathy and Haidyn Harvey: October 2014’s DfD Volunteer Superstars

Kathy and Haidyn Harvey are not strangers to the world of non-profit organizations.  Together, they run The Shoe Crew, a community of people who collect new shoes for children.  Since June 2012, The Shoe Crew has collected over 8,000 new pairs of shoes, acting on the mission statement that no one should have to go a day without comfortable footwear.  Kathy and Haidyn have also been volunteering with Dolls for Daughters® for over a year.  After Jessica personally contacted them, they became very involved with the organization.  In the past year, they have been able to combine The Shoe Crew with Dolls for Daughters®’ work.

1. How did you first learn about Dolls for Daughters®?

We had started a Denver chapter of The Shoe Crew and were just beginning to settle in.  One day, Jessica contacted us and asked if we would be interested in working with her and her organization.  We were thrilled!  We 100% believe that this organization makes such an enormous impact and we were honored to receive her invitation.

2. Some people are drawn to Dolls for Daughers because of their own personal experience, or the experience of someone close to them, similar to Jessica’s.  Why did you decide to volunteer for Dolls for Daughters®?

After speaking with Jessica, we knew we would be helping a multitude of children and families in need.  With our organization, The Shoe Crew, we are aware that many kids only receive hand-me-downs or used shoes.  By collecting new shoes and distributing them to the kids, we have seen that just one new pair of well-fitting shoes can put a smile on a child’s face.

3. What has touched you most about the work Dolls for Daughters® is doing?

Seeing the joy that Jessica has brought to so many disadvantaged children has been incredibly moving.  Specifically, the annual toy shop was a very emotional and inspiring time for not only Haidyn and myself, but the entire Denver Shoe Crew.

4. How long have you been a volunteer with Dolls for Daughters®?  What is/are the biggest reasons for staying involved?

Our involvement with Dolls for Daughters® has lasted for a little over a year.  We continue to volunteer for Dolls for Daughters® because of the need from so many families and the joy it brings them, as well as us.

 

5. What is your most memorable experience volunteering with Dolls for Daughters®?

The experience that stands out the most was the Annual Toy Shop.  When we pulled up to give away our new shoes, all of a sudden we saw hundreds and hundreds of people lined up in subzero temperatures to get Christmas toys for their children.  We had trouble holding back the tears.

6. Have you participated in any of the Dolls for Daughters® fundraising events?  If so, which one(s)?

We participated in the Bowlathon!  It was amazing to see the support from the community.  Jessica inspires so many people.

7. Have you shared your volunteer experience with your friends and family?  What was their reaction?

Oh my, yes!  They are all amazed at how many children Dolls for Daughters® brings joy to.  The amount of items collected throughout the year is astounding.  Organizations like Dolls for Daughters® are able to demonstrate peoples’ innate generosity.

8. Have any of your friends or family become Dolls for Daughters® volunteers because of it?

Many have contributed new shoes to Dolls for Daughters® and helped us distribute them at the Toy Giveaway in December.

9. With so many organizations in need of volunteers for so many different purposes, what suggestions or advice do you have for people who consider volunteering?  In particular, how should they choose the organization and how should they decide in what areas of the organization and how much they will help?

Commit to what you are able to do and have fun!  Know that everything you are doing is benefitting someone else.  Choose an organization that speaks to you and something you are passionate about.  Volunteer in a way that highlights your skills and strengths.