- Ladies serve residents of Good Samaritan Inn
- "More hispanic volunteers needed," an interview with Paul Bryant
- Christmas Eve dinner at Durham Rescue Mission: Hear what our participants said
Ladies of Hispanic Professional serve residents of Good Samaritan Inn
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An interview with Paul Bryant, volunteer coordinator, Durham Rescue Mission
Durham Rescue Mission welcomed Triangle Hispanic Professionals on December 24 as volunteers. Six members worked the buffet line, serving men, women and children a traditional holiday dinner for over four hours straight. Paul Bryant, volunteer coordinator for Durham Rescue Mission spoke to Hispanic Professional days before the annual Christmas Eve dinner.
HP: How does this Christmas compare with those of the past? PB: We're hoping for a bigger crowd this year than ever. We're going to be giving away four toys per child this year, which is an increase from last year.
HP: Who will come out on Christmas Eve? PB: Our residents will attend, but because of our advertising on the radio, tv and even putting flyers up in neighborhoods, many people in need know that we will be giving away clothing, coats, toys, groceries and a free meal. We're hoping for 12-1700 kids.
HP: It has been said that the outpouring of volunteers and donations this year has been bigger than in years passed. Is this true? PB: Yes. Last year we had 427 volunteers and this year we've surpassed that by at least 120. And there have been more donations.
HP: Is this the result of big hearts in the Triangle or better marketing? PB: (Laughing) The marketing. Also, everybody in the Triangle has a really giving heart; it's kind of overwhelming to see people's willingness to help during the holiday season. We're thankful for that.
HP: Christmas is the time when most people think of volunteering, but what needs does the Rescue Mission have during the year? PB: The Mission maintains about 100 residents on the men's side and there are about 50 women, children and married couples. We have gardening projects in the Spring, we have 42 houses that need upkeep and maintenance. On an entry level, a volunteer job would be to set up and serve [a meal] and interact with the residents here and get a feel for where they're coming from, to have a hands-on experience with them.
HP: Do you have a need for Hispanic volunteers? PB: (Interjecting) We need more Hispanic volunteers! In the community events and outreach, we are much in need.
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Hear what our volunteers said about
Christmas Eve 2007 at Durham Rescue Mission
Wolfgang Sanyer, member:
“It was very rewarding. I could not believe how many people are in need. The most satisfying experience happened when Iliane, my wife, and I were leaving the Mission:
On the other side of the fence were Jennifer Rios (name changed) with her two kids. They had arrived late and could not get in, when the kids realized what was going on, they began to cry, along with the mother.
My wife immediately went inside to find out what could be done, she came back to ask the ages of the kids and shortly after she returned with two big bags full of presents. The smiles and happiness reflected on the Jennifer and her kids was the best Christmas gift my wife and I received! "
Ricardo Cobos, member
“My daughter and I enjoyed serving in this event. Rachel did a fantastic job organizing this event. It was nice to be able to just show up and serve. I particularly enjoyed speaking with those people we had to serve and learning more about them as people. I will look forward to serving in at the next service opportunity.”
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