This month we are pleased to recognize Nancy Fandrem, a volunteer who's demonstrated an on-going commitment to our agency.
Nancy originally came to us through a senior service employment agency that provides training and job opportunities for a designated period of time. Even before she got involved with their program, Nancy had begun to acquire valuable skills. After completing computer-training classes, she stayed on as an office assistant to the class instructor for the next 10 months.
By the time the senior service agency matched her up with Volunteers of America Oregon (VOAOR) she was well prepared and eager to jump in. Nancy began working in the development department where she entered information into our databases, set up files, and lent a hand wherever she could to help lessen the workload of others.
"I felt so comfortable in this work environment where everyone was accepting and appreciative, I didn't want to leave even after my temporary employment period was up.
Rather than going out to look for work elsewhere, I decided to stay on as a volunteer so I could continue to come in and help out."
That was in July 2006, nearly a year and a half ago. Every weekday since, Nancy catches a bus and heads for the VOAOR administrative offices where she spends several hours volunteering in various departments doing data entry, filing, coordinating mass mailings and doing whatever it takes to keep busy with meaningful work.
After many years of caring for her ailing mother before she passed on, Nancy is now grateful for the opportunity to be spending time with congenial people while contributing to an agency that does so much for others.
"Nancy has been a real asset to our staff," says Doran Whipple, Special Events and Volunteer Manager at VOAOR. "She's always willing to step in and help out. We're fortunate to have her with us."
We thank Nancy for her dedication and valuable assistance.If you'd like to become a volunteers, check out our many opportunities here.