Volunteers in Action

Do What Comes Natural-VOLUNTEER!

A successful match between a volunteer and a client is evident with Cecile Bolduc and Kathy Wyrick.

Cecile Bolduc, of Hampton is Kathy Wyrick’s current volunteer. Some of the things they do together include shop, run errands, an occasional ride to Kathy’s place of employment, and so on. Kathy says of her volunteer, “She blocks out our time together, and always says I’m the boss, but I know she is an amazing gift. I don’t feel like I’m asking for the impossible with CC, because she opens herself up to make me feel comfortable.”

Kathy Wyrick of Hampton has been a client of the New Hampshire Association for the Blind for about 7 years. “I was looking for assistance to make my lifestyle independent. I found the New Hampshire Association for the Blind through phone conversations while looking for transportation.” Rheumatoid arthritis has affected her vision. Multiple surgeries, visual aids, and glasses have maximized her usable vision, yet she still faces some limitations, such as driving. Kathy was matched with her first volunteer from the New Hampshire Association for the Blind, and they quickly connected and felt comfortable with one another. In fact, her original volunteer moved, yet they still remain in touch as friends today.

When asked what prompted Cecile, or CC as she prefers, to get involved, she shares, “I used to work for Easter Seals, and I had a client, who was blind from an accident. I just loved being with him, and I found it natural to describe things to him. I discovered an affinity toward the blind.”

CC went through our volunteer orientation in March of 2009. "The New Hampshire Association for the Blind has a very informative training program that prepares you to assist the blind. They also allay any fears and doubts people may have. They are very supportive and available to answer any questions." Volunteers assist anywhere between once a month to once a week with their clients, depending on the volunteer’s availability and the needs of the client. Geographic location and common interests are also factored into a match so it will be a meaningful and positive experience for all. "Doing volunteer work for NHAB is so rewarding. You ALWAYS receive much more than you could possibly give," says CC.

How do both volunteer and client feel about their time together?

CC says, “Kathy is so appreciative of any little thing that I do. To me it isn’t very much, but she is very, very grateful. She has a great sense of humor. We laugh a lot together. She’s made it so we are more than client and volunteer. We’re friends.”

Kathy’s comments, “CC is good about watching for clues regarding sight limitations. . We have alot of fun laughing and talking. We sometimes show up with the same colors on and find it ironic. She is a part of how I keep my independence. When she commits to do something she is there. She always asks me how I want assistance and when. She even lets me cook for her, which is one of my outlets. I enjoy giving in ways I can, too. We are friends …”