Volunteer Spotlight: Jon

Hi Jon! Tell us a bit about your experience volunteering at A Place To Be? How did you get involved here at A Place To Be?

I have been a volunteer at A Place to Be for the past 3 months.   For 10 years, I have been living just 2 blocks away from A Place to Be.  I walk past it every day. I have known Tom Sweitzer, the co-founder for 10 years.  My wife has known him for 30 years.  I occasionally ride my bike past Kim Tapper, the other co-founder.

I love music—in fact, I was a music teacher for over 30 years.  Yet with all of these connections and loves, I never volunteered.  I don’t know why.  But one day, I made the plunge…and it is a plunge I will never regret!!!  I signed up to volunteer at A Place to Be.

What are some moments that have stood out to you during your time at A Place To Be?

I was overwhelmed and blown away being a part of the music therapy sessions.  Who wouldn’t love being in a class listening to good music, playing instruments, dancing, playing games, art projects, making tie-dyed shirts, decorating cookies, singing, making up songs, acting?   And who wouldn’t help but love being in a class where community, belonging, hope, respect, caring and love are so fundamental.   It’s exciting to help with these classes working to bring about amazing, transformative changes to client’s lives. After the first class, I walked outside and tears came into my eyes for what I had been a part of.  Not only was I giving of myself, but I was being given so much in return.

Can you share one experience that you remember from an A Place To Be session or group you were a part of?

In one class, a girl gave me a big hug simply because I had helped her in an art project.  Another smiled and waved at me when he saw that I came to watch him perform in “Charlie Brown’s Christmas”. And in an afternoon class, one client and I often talk about our love of classical music and composers. One student did an amazing vocal rendition of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” for a Halloween event that I coordinated.

Without a doubt,  I would strongly encourage anyone to volunteer at A Place to Be to be part of this community that truly strengthens and enriches clients’ lives, no matter what their issue is,  through music and the creative arts. And I would encourage anyone to volunteer to strengthen and fulfill your own life by being part of this amazing community. 

                                                                                                      Jon Ives