March Volunteer of the Month: Lyn

When Lyn joined the MAC team a few years ago, she hit the ground running. After just a few weeks of direct service with clients, she was already training newer volunteers. Lyn has been a faithful Wednesday volunteer, meeting with clients to hear their stories and provide assistance.

Lyn spent thirty-six years working in finance and brings her expertise with her. She will often sit with clients and go over their bills, talking them through how they might be able to cut costs and save money. She finds it rewarding to share her skills with clients and recognizes that not everyone has access to the knowledge she has.

“I know what it’s like to be hungry,” Lyn remembers from her childhood. “So I can bring a level of empathy to my work.”  She takes her time with every client, making sure they feel acknowledged. Once, she even called the mayor’s office with a client to help sort out a water bill. “They were actually pretty helpful,” she laughs.

Lyn often shares stories and experiences about MAC with her friends, working to debunk common stereotypes about poverty and homelessness. She has inspired others to volunteer and become involved at MAC. “Regardless of your skills and experiences, there is something here that can be a match for you,” Lyn urges others who may want to get involved.