Being a frequent runner in her neighborhood, Holly has observed a rise in homeless tents along her running route in the last few years. She could see that the problem was becoming worse, and the desire to help settled on her heart. 

Unsure of where to start, she reached out to a close friend who directed her to the Keystone Mission for resources. The day she discovered Keystone, she noticed the opportunity to attend a volunteer open house the next day. This had to be a sign, she thought.

After speaking with Kathy, the Operations and Program Director of the Wilkes Barre Innovation Center, she decided to fill out a volunteer application.

Today, Holly is a regular volunteer that enjoys sitting and speaking with guests, learning about their stories, and learning how she can better help the homeless. During Code Blue season, Holly assisted with set up for the emergency shelter – making sure each cot had a blanket and the proper hygiene items for showers.  

Through multiple conversations, Holly has witnessed the lack of confidence among the guests to transform their lives. “They need one person to believe in them. They need to know they are capable of doing wonderful things!”

Holly says she thankful for the opportunity to be one of those people alongside staff that believe change is possible!

“Any day I come here is an awesome day. I keep my interactions friendly and try to be helpful even if it’s only for a minute.”