Comforting Creatures -Volunteer Spotlight: Craft Group
Back (L to R): Stella Subonovich, Kay Holt; Front (L to R): Shirley Smuk, Kathie Machida; Not pictured: Kathlene Contant
What are an elephant, a fish, an owl and a cat doing at St. Joe’s?
The Volunteer Craft Group makes these cozy creatures by hand to help comfort patients, families and visitors of all ages. The “Pocket Pals” are distributed in waiting areas across St. Joe’s King Campus.
Read on to learn more about the Volunteer Craft Group’s role. Interested in joining the group? Visit www.joinstjoes.ca/volunteer to apply!
Why were you interested in volunteering with the Craft Group?
We all wanted to do something meaningful in retirement and help support our community. The Craft Group role is also great for socializing with peers.
Not all of us knew how to sew when we joined. Kathie, for example, started off cutting out patterns when she first started but is now sewing!
How do you think the Craft Group volunteers impact patient care at St. Joe’s?
The Pocket Pals make patients and visitors happy, and have a calming effect. They generally bring a smile to children’s faces and to people of all ages.
What is your favourite part about volunteering?
Our favourite parts about volunteering include the camaraderie and meeting all kinds of people.
Who or what inspires you to volunteer?
Two people who inspire us to volunteer are Ellen DeGeneres and Bob Kemp.
How often do you volunteer?
The Craft Group meets every Wednesday morning to prepare materials and sew each creation.
How long have you been a volunteer at St. Joe’s?
All members of the group have been volunteering for different lengths of time. The newest member of the group started this May and the longest-serving member has been volunteering at St. Joe’s for 27 years.
What are three words you would use to describe yourself?
Three words that would describe the members of the group are empathetic, outgoing and helpful.
When given a chance we believe that everyone, even you, can brighten someone's day and shine as a volunteer at St. Joe's! Join us by visiting www.joinstjoes.ca/volunteer.