I think APTB came into my life at exactly the right time–I was diagnosed with autism a few months before I started volunteering, and APTB has been so instrumental in showing me that there are places where people like me can succeed and be accepted. It really is a place for everyone, no matter what you bring to the table.
How long have you been volunteering at A Place To Be, how did you learn about us/get started volunteering with us?
I’ve been volunteering for exactly a year! APTB was suggested to me by my job coach. My first event was ushering for The Snow Monster last year, which I loved. Since then, I’ve tried to be involved as much as I can.
What were some of the ways you’ve been involved with APTB over the years? Do you have any specific moments that stick out to you, or inspiring or joyous moments you would like to share?
I’ve volunteered for special events like recitals and musicals, as well as helping weekly with MOST. I also was a mentor for Film Camp this summer. So many positive moments stick out to me, but I feel like there were a lot of special moments at Camp specifically. At our Film Camp premiere, my friend’s son who uses a communication device got to see someone like him on screen for the first time, and his caregiver mentioned how awesome that was for them both to experience. A lot of my favorite memories from APTB are small moments, like one of my campers who was so excited to introduce me to his family, or another camper and I wordlessly bonding over pictures of our pets. It’s those little moments of connections I really enjoy.
Why should someone volunteer at A Place To Be? What sets being involved with APTB apart from other organizations, and what has kept you coming back?
I love A Place To Be because it just radiates positivity. You can tell everyone loves to be there, and the joy is infectious. It’s also a very accepting and encouraging environment. It’s forced me to come out of my shell a little bit, which I’m grateful for. The staff is also so supportive of me not just as a volunteer but as an individual. I think APTB came into my life at exactly the right time–I was diagnosed with autism a few months before I started volunteering, and APTB has been so instrumental in showing me that there are places where people like me can succeed and be accepted. It really is a place for everyone, no matter what you bring to the table. I recommend it to people all the time, because you’ll meet the best people there (participants, staff, and other volunteers) and have so much fun making music together.
If you are interested in volunteering at A Place To Be, reach out to us on our volunteer page!