The Real MVPs: Volunteers You Should Know

The week of April 20th is National Volunteer Week, marking a celebration of volunteers and their essential contributions to nonprofits across the world. Below, we're shining a light on our incredible front desk volunteers who keep the engine going at CWC. From answering calls to being the first friendly face you see when you walk into CWC HQ, our work would not be possible without this dedicated group of women!

Paula Rhodes 

Every Other Monday Shift | 3 years volunteering

What inspired you to start volunteering at CWC?

I was first involved in the Wellness Eats program, working in the kitchen & delivering food and then started in the office about 2 years ago.

I knew I wanted to volunteer someplace, but not sure where.  Once I heard about CWC, I knew that was where I wanted to volunteer. I’m a compassionate person & I really wanted to help people with cancer. Like most people, my life has been deeply affected by cancer, in particular losing my husband & brother to cancer.

What’s a memorable experience you’ve had while volunteering?

One memorable experience is when I made a welcome call to a caregiver & she told me her husband had died the day before. Of course, I felt terrible. I let her talk & share what she wanted. I was very compassionate & kind to her. Deep down, I could totally relate to her losing her husband.  She said talking to me was very helpful & she was grateful for the call. I was glad I could help her by just talking.

How has volunteering at CWC impacted you personally?

Volunteering is twofold for me. I’m helping others who are going through a tough time, and that helps me. It makes me feel good about myself  and gives me more purpose in my life.

When I’m not at CWC you will find me ______________

When I’m not at CWC, you’ll find me out walking or playing MahJongg or on the beach in the summer.

Mary Ann Donnelly

Tuesday Shift | 5 years volunteering

What inspired you to start volunteering at CWC?

I was inspired to volunteer at CWC after Sarah Swain dedicated the 2019 Women's Music Festival to my niece, Jenny Pagliaro. Jenny lost her battle with breast cancer in March of 2019.

What’s a memorable experience you’ve had while volunteering?

The most memorable experience I've had while volunteering was delivering meals to clients and experiencing the gratitude they express.

How has volunteering at CWC impacted you personally?

Volunteering with CWC has given meaningful purpose to my retirement years.

What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering?

I would tell anyone thinking of volunteering that they should give it a try. It is very rewarding to help our clients at one of the most vulnerable times in their life.

When I’m not at CWC you will find me ______________ 

When I'm not at CWC you will find me enjoying my grandchildren and family, walking the many beautiful areas of Cape Cod, and traveling with my husband.

Kathy Gordon

Wednesday Shift | 6 years volunteering

What inspired you to start volunteering at CWC?

I have been volunteering at CWC for 6 years. I loved Sarah's mission helping cancer patients on Cape Cod. Having been through breast cancer and losing my mom and sister to it, CWC is a way to help people navigate their journey. I can identify with the rollercoaster of emotions we all go through when we hear the words “you have cancer”.

What’s a memorable experience you’ve had while volunteering?

My memorable experiences were delivering meals to clients. They'd ask me to sit and have a cup of coffee with them. I enjoyed listening to them talk about their careers, family, hobbies, and how they were dealing with their treatment or surgery.

How has volunteering at CWC impacted you personally?

I would say volunteering at CWC gives you the chance to help people feel better during a difficult time in their lives. As sad as it can be, you can be the ear to listen or help them find resources. Everyone here treats each other like family.

When I’m not at CWC you will find me ______________ 

When not at CWC, you can find me cooking for a community kitchen, doing terrapin turtle protection, and cold stuns for the Audubon. I am involved with the Wellfleet Oyster Alliance and a cook for Lasagna Love. At home, I love my gardening, spending time out on the beach with the pups.

Joanna Clausen 

Friday Shift  | 6 months volunteering 

What inspired you to start volunteering at CWC?

Having gone through the “Cancer” journey and having used, and still using (for neuropathy) CWC services, both my husband and I were so moved by CWC’s mission that we wanted to give back to them.

What’s a memorable experience you’ve had while volunteering?

We had an older, distraught woman who came into the office.  Her cancer had come back, and she was feeling very overwhelmed.  The only thing she could think about was her sick dog, she couldn’t address her needs until she felt her dog was all set.  The vet wouldn’t look at the dog until she paid up front, so we spent some time on the computer and located an organization that provided financial support for dog care.  This settled her down, and then we were able to fill out her application.  

How has volunteering at CWC impacted you personally?

I find it to be a very humbling experience.  I have spoken to a couple of clients that are terminal, and I’m always in awe of the joy and positivity reflected in our phone conversation despite their circumstances.  

What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering?

I would say that CWC personnel truly believe in the mission.  Each one of them works very hard and always with a smile!  They do a lot of laughing in the office.   As a volunteer, if you can help with some of the daily tasks to help ease their workload, it can be very rewarding.

When I’m not at CWC you will find me ______________

I love gardening, cooking, and walking our dog, Chester, and exploring the many walking trails and beaches on the Cape.  I also volunteer at the OLOC Thrift Shop.