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Every day, they give their time so generously

This past year has been difficult for many of our communities. Amidst a global pandemic and unprecedented challenges, our volunteers rose to the occasion with compassion and an unwavering commitment to continue to support Planned Parenthood. This Volunteer Appreciation Week, we want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude for our volunteers’ continued commitment to Planned Parenthood.

While we halted most of our in-person volunteer operations, they stuck with us and joined our virtual trivia nights, movie screenings, conversations around supporting our communities during COVID, talked to neighbors about the importance of the census, encouraged friends and family to vote, and so much more! They volunteered as socially-distanced health screeners and greeters, ensuring our patients and staff were able to safely seek services. Thank you for all of the hours you have dedicated over the past year and for sharing your many talents with us.
 

An interview with one of our amazing volunteers, Kate:
 

How long have you been volunteering for PPPSW, and how did you start?
I’ve been volunteering for Planned Parenthood as a Health Center Greeter since the beginning of this year.

I first came to Planned Parenthood as a patient. I was pretty nervous and didn’t know what to expect. When I arrived, the assistants in the office were helpful and understanding, and I was able to be seen fairly quickly & easily. The supportive environment helped me feel comfortable and safe with being honest about my health needs, and the medical staff went above and beyond to answer all of my questions. From that moment on, I was sincerely grateful for the quality care and education that I received, and I want to be a part of making sure everyone is able to have access to that. I knew that I could give back by volunteering, and become a part of helping others receive affordable and quality care.
 

After joining the volunteer team, I was really surprised to find that my story is similar to many others, and that we really are a place of no judgement.


What types of activities have you engaged in?
Currently I am a Health Center Greeter, which means that I am one of the first faces the patient sees when they are arriving, and it’s important that patients feel safe and welcome. I am also an extra set of eyes to make sure things are safe. I greet patients and am able to answer general questions. Knowing that each encounter may be someone’s first time here, I make sure to be a guide for where to go and what to expect at the check-in. I try to give the same support and compassion that I received when I first came here.


What was your most memorable volunteering experience?
My most memorable experience volunteering was on my first day, when I met the security team, the health care team, and other volunteers, who were all friendly and welcoming! I even met the CEO, Darrah Johnson, who was able to chat and snap a selfie with me! I have to say, it was pretty cool. These are real people and they really do care! There are a lot of people working together who contribute to keeping our services safe, legal, and affordable, and that’s beautiful to see.


Why do you volunteer?
I volunteer because I believe in the mission to give every patient access to information and resources that can allow them to make the best decisions for themselves. Giving patients knowledge and control over their own bodies is essential. No one has a right to step between that.

I think at the end of the day, health care is health care. Whether it’s treating general, mental, or reproductive health, it’s about getting the services you need to have a healthy life. It’s here for a reason, and there shouldn’t be any shame or stigma attached to it. Society still has a long way to go to catch up with the times, but that doesn’t mean our health should wait!

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