Get to know our volunteer of the month, Farah!
What do I do in my role as a volunteer?
Volunteered at the Senior Lunch by assisting with food preparation in the kitchen, arranging and decorating desserts, serving guests, and handling dishes and I worked as a teacher assistant at a preschool and participated in all activities, including setting up and cleaning up play and craft materials, helping children get ready upon arrival and departure, and assisting with arts and crafts projects and painting.
When did you begin volunteering at MPNH?
I started volunteering in September 27, 2024.
Why do you volunteer?
I volunteer because I enjoy helping others and being part of a supportive community and also volunteer to gain experience, improve my skills, and learn more about working in a new environment. Volunteering gives me a sense of purpose and helps me connect with people from different backgrounds.
Can you share a story or instance where you felt you made an impact?
At the Senior Lunch, I always try to greet everyone with a warm smile. I’ve noticed that this small gesture often brightens their mood and creates a positive atmosphere. It makes me feel like I’m contributing to their happiness, even in a small way.
One day at the preschool, a child was crying a lot and didn’t want to stay. A teacher had been holding her for a long time and was very tired. I used a hand puppet and talked to her in a playful voice. Slowly, she calmed down, connected with me, and joined the play.
Another time, during the graduation party, one of the kids gave me the same gift they gave the teachers. That moment meant a lot to me—it made me feel truly accepted as part of the team.
Your favorite memory at MPNH?
One of my favorite memories at the Seniors’ Lunch program is calling out the numbers during bingo games. Every time I do it, everyone laughs and says how well I read the numbers. Sometimes I say something funny by accident—like once I said “fifty fifty” and they all burst out laughing! Other times I read with too much excitement, and they tell me to slow down, then I repeat it gently and they enjoy it even more.
During lunch, everyone is so kind—they thank me, ask if I’ve eaten, and sometimes even invite me to sit with them. The connection, joy, and love I feel from them makes this one of my most special memories at MPNH.
And on the last day, the lead preschool teacher (Leela) sincerely thanked me and encouraged me to return in September. That made me feel so appreciated. All of these moments together are truly special memories for me.
Feedback from staff/participants:
Farah is an exceptional volunteer who consistently takes initiative and goes above and beyond in every opportunity. Her warmth, kindness, and genuine care shine through in every interaction at the House. Farah brings a positive energy and a generous spirit that uplift everyone around her. We are deeply grateful for her unwavering support and the meaningful impact she continues to make in our community.