06/06/2026
At the Samaritan Center, volunteering is not only something our community members do for others — it’s also a meaningful way many of our clients give back while building confidence, connection, and purpose.
Clients who are connected with their caseworker have the opportunity to volunteer at the center while also earning helpful resources such as gas cards or bus passes. For many clients, especially those living out of their vehicles or navigating transportation challenges, these resources can make a significant difference in helping them safely access shelters, appointments, jobs, and services throughout the community.
This month, we asked our Pantry Coordinator, Sarai, to share her thoughts on clients volunteering at the Samaritan Center.
“Volunteering allows clients to build confidence, learn responsibility, and gain a sense of purpose while giving back to the center that supports them. Having clients volunteer helps us get to know them better and build stronger relationships. It helps clients feel valued, included, and part of the community, which I feel is so special.”
We also asked a few clients to share what volunteering has meant to them:
Luis recently began volunteering at the Samaritan Center and shared that after his first experience, he almost forgot he was volunteering because he already felt like he belonged and was part of the community here.
Jacob, who has volunteered consistently for more than four months, said volunteering has been very rewarding because it gives him the opportunity to return the favor and give back in his own way.
Gene volunteered in exchange for bus passes during the cold winter months while participating in the PADS Winter Shelter Program. The bus passes helped him safely travel from location to location to access shelter and resources throughout the community. Gene also wanted to recognize the Samaritan Center staff for always going above and beyond to support clients with care and compassion.
These stories are a reminder that community support comes full circle. We are grateful for every client who chooses to give back, share their time, and help strengthen the Samaritan Center community.
