Heartfelt Highlight

”A volunteer doesn’t necessarily have the time, they just have the heart.”
~American author Elizabeth Alexander

With gratitude and heartfelt appreciation for her continued volunteering and service, The Arc of Spokane has chosen Cheryl Miller as February’s Heartfelt Highlight

The Arc has volunteers from all areas of life and skillsets who provide their time and hearts to serve people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Within the Community Center, members often interact with volunteers by simply sharing an activity. As a volunteer, Miller has been coming to The Arc’s Community Center nearly two years. Prior to her retirement, Miller was a paraeducator in special education where she loved her job and learned so much from the students she worked with. This experience naturally led to her volunteering at The Arc.

“Cheryl has been an amazing volunteer for us. Her patience, compassion, and joy is infectious. She not only engages in group activities like crafts and board games but can often be seen sitting with a member just chatting. As Friday afternoon approaches, and I’m running on empty from an active week, I remember that Cheryl will be here soon and that gets me through the rest of the day!” Inclusive Community Program Manager Stephanie Lyon says.

Not only is Miller a bright light for the staff and members, she greatly enjoys the members she works and interacts with. Volunteering is very close to Miller’s heart and it shows in her service in the Community Center. She is always greeted with a hearty hello and smiles as soon as she walks into the Community Center.

”Cheryl is not only a fantastic help with our Friday afternoon crafts, but is always the first to volunteer her time to our holiday parties. She is a big part of our parties running as smooth as they do,” Community Center Specialist Justin Ostberg says.

When asked why others should sign up to volunteer with The Arc, Miller says “Because you will have the chance to make a positive impact on members lives and in the process improve your own life. I know it has improved mine!”

The impact of volunteering is often a two-way street and can be one of the most fulfilling experiences one can have in life. As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said, “Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve.” At The Arc, service to others is a thread woven through the tapestry of the organization itself. Volunteers like Miller are vital to accomplishing The Arc’s mission.

“Cheryl fits in so well here, she's very interested in catching up with as many members as possible every time she visits. She helps with the craft in the afternoon or brings her own supplies to lead her own craft. She is always asking if there is something else she can help with, and the staff really appreciates that. We can tell the members enjoy having her around too because they always ask about her when she isn't here. She makes lasting relationships and that is extremely important for so many people, members and staff alike. Thank you for everything you have done Cheryl, we always look forward to spending time with you!” Community Center Coordinator Corey Horstman says.