Volunteer Story: Pauline

 

Standing in the empty rooms of her son’s first home, Pauline had an epiphany: “I saw how important it was to have a simple piece of furniture. Just having a place to put things – a lamp on a table, books in a cubby – begins to make a home and creates calm.” As a housewarming gift, she tried a new hobby, successfully up-cycling two pieces of furniture for him.

 

In December 2022, Pauline received a letter explaining our Welcome Kit campaign. From bedding and towels to cleaning supplies and pots and pans, this initiative provides our clients moving into new apartments with the necessities we sometimes take for granted. The idea resonated with Pauline, and she set out to learn more about our mission. “I discovered that Columbus House is really a pillar for solutions to homelessness in Connecticut.” 

 

Putting her new craft to good use, she began giving well-worn wooden objects new life – all to benefit the people we serve. “My favorite re-dos are pieces that are 30+ years old. It’s interesting to see how they were put together and the original workmanship that went into them.” 

 

When she first cleans a piece up, she spends some time “noodle-ing,” envisioning how she will transform it. Sometimes an idea pops up immediately; sometimes it takes weeks. She’s learned not to rush the process and to trust her gut once she begins. 

 

Pauline approaches her craft with the same philosophy she applies to life: “You have to empower yourself. I always say ‘courage is underrated and not recognized.’ Courage is not about making big moves but those everyday moments.”

 

One of the most rewarding steps in Pauline’s journey with her up-cycled pieces is the drop-off at our shelter. She explains, “The staff is wonderful, I just love working with them! I see that they are dedicated to their clients. They make it so easy for me to drop off items, and they share where some of the pieces go. I like to hear the rest of the story."

 

Thank you, Pauline! Your compassion for our neighbors is commendable, and we are so grateful.

Visit our volunteer page to learn how you can get involved like Pauline!