Volunteer Jennifer Prye has known Jessica Bachus for a number of years. Even in the midst of her busy work and family life, she finds time to dedicate to Dolls for Daughters®. Jennifer is in federal contracting and works on developing grant proposals and supporting biomedical research in the Department of Defense. She’s been lending her expertise to Jessica and has committed to helping at a rate of approximately five grants per year. When the grant-writing process is in full swing, she spends about 5-10 hours per week devoted to Dolls for Daughters®.
1. Why did you decide to volunteer with Dolls for Daughters®?
Jessica is a long-time friend and co-worker of mine. Her story and friendship have touched my life in more ways than one. From teaching together in the heart of inner-city Denver, to being able to call her out of the blue while PCSing to a new Air Force Base in San Antonio (yes, I was literally in the car pulling away from Nellis AFB in Las Vegas with my husband in front of me) asking her for advice on how to get my unborn son to sleep through the night quickly, to dealing with multiple kids and a husband who has a demanding job…I can always count on Jess! Best part is, her advice is always so helpful
I am also so proud of her and her accomplishments and strength. It’s the least I can do to support her and volunteer for Dolls For Daughters.
2. How long have you been a volunteer with Dolls for Daughters®?
Approximately one year.
3. What is your most memorable experience volunteering with Dolls for Daughters® and which event was it at?
Watching the CBS special… I was able to witness an absolute blessing morph into something special. I thought to myself, I HAVE to find a way to volunteer from afar. Soon after, we discussed how I could help with writing for grants to secure and develop her organization.
4. Have you participated in any fundraising event that Dolls for Daughters® has held?
No, unfortunately I live too freaking far away! But I’m determined to make it to a toy shop one day soon!
5. Have you shared your volunteer experience with your friends and family? If so, what was their reaction?
YES! My mom and dad are avid supporters and are so excited for her. My mom helps mentor us along in the grant writing process!
6. If you did share your experience, have any of your friends or family become Dolls for Daughters® volunteers because of it?
With the exception of my mom, all of my close circle of friends and family just don’t live in the Denver area. Otherwise…I don’t think she would be able to get rid of us!!!
7. 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?
I recommend volunteering for an organization that you have a passion to support…or where you can relate to the need for help! I chose Dolls for Daughters® simply because I understand and have a passion for the definition of a “mother’s love” that drives Jessica and her organization. I can tell you I NEVER want to experience a loss such as hers, but I so understand what and why she might do what she does…I am a mommy of two boys myself!
