Project HOME is Grateful for our Volunteers

When I started in my role as volunteer and in-kind gifts coordinator at Project HOME in 2023, I was a bit taken aback at something our volunteers would consistently express following their shifts—they'd thank my colleagues and me for the opportunity. This came as a surprise to me. I mean, we’re the ones who are grateful to them, right? I quickly learned that our volunteers weren't motivated primarily by a sense of obligation, or even a desire to "do good" (though that latter factor is certainly in there!). Rather, more than anything else, many are inspired by a sense of gratitude—that’s just the kind of people they are, what they’re made of.  

The impact of our volunteers reaches far beyond the hours they give. Each act of service helps Project HOME extend compassion, build trust, and create a stronger sense of belonging for the people and neighborhoods we serve. Whether offering a meal, a listening ear, a welcoming smile, or dependable support behind the scenes, volunteers help turn our mission into everyday moments of hope, dignity, and connection.

Volunteer Impact: The Hub of Hope

Frequently cited by urban planners and homeless advocates nationwide as a blueprint for how to serve unhoused people inside major infrastructure centers, the Hub of Hope is a welcoming engagement facility in the heart of Center City where individuals experiencing homelessness can find safety, dignity, connection, and care. Through everyday support like coffee, meals, showers, and laundry, and vital services such as health care and case management, the Hub helps guests build trusting relationships and take meaningful steps toward stability, recovery, and permanent housing.  

“The guests I’ve met here are some of the most resilient folks I know, and I’m grateful for every conversation I have with them," said Shane Britton, a regular Hub of Hope volunteer, reflecting recently on his experience working with the folks who visit the Hub.

The attitude Shane is conveying is just one reason why Project HOME is incredibly appreciative of our gracious, caring, and generous volunteers. Shane shared that volunteering at the Hub is a “way to ground me in my community. Every shift reminds me of why I look forward to coming back."  He dedicates several hours each week making sure our staff and participants feel at HOME in his presence. 

It's because of volunteers like Shane that the Hub remains a welcoming and warm environment for the most vulnerable members of our community.  

Beth T. has dedicated the past one and a half years serving coffee, lunch, and conversations at the Hub. One of Beth’s main takeaways is a sense of appreciation for staff and participants. Beth states, “There are two things I particularly appreciate. First, I like it when I can serve participants meals or coffee and interact just a tiny bit with a 'hello,' a smile and a 'you're welcome.' I know that often unhoused people get ignored so it's nice to interact with them. Secondly, I've enjoyed getting to know the staff and being of help to them." 

Both Shane and Beth have shown and experienced that through volunteerism they're able to provide the most marginalized members of our community with a sense of comfort, safety and dignity through something as simple as a hot cup of coffee, a comforting meal, and a warm conversation.  

Volunteer Impact: The Helen Brown Community Center Food Pantry

Two and a half miles to the north of the Hub, the Helen Brown Community Center Food Pantry receives roughly 2,500 pounds of food per week. While staff focus on operation and logistics, volunteers do much more than unload deliveries and stock shelves (though, to be sure, those tasks are vital): They help create a welcoming and supportive space where neighbors can access nutritious food with kindness and care. Rooted in Project HOME’s commitment to community, food security, and connection, the Food Pantry serves as more than a source of groceries—it's a place where relationships are built, needs are met, and families in North Philadelphia are reminded that they're seen and supported.

Sister Mary Helen Beirne has been volunteering at the Food Pantry for several years. Her service impacts the community through her care, compassion, and dedication. She told me, “As Sisters of St. Joseph, we're called to be 'givers and receivers' as we serve our dear neighbors without distinction. While I give time to data collection work at the Food Pantry, I receive so much more: the creative, committed energy of the Project HOME staff there along with the grateful presence of those we serve daily—their patient care for each other and their steadfast support of their friends and families. Each day I go home rich in the kindness of the people of North Philly.”  

Whether you're serving meals, supporting special events, mentoring participants, beautifying our spaces, or sharing your professional expertise, your kindness creates meaningful moments, strengthens our community, and helps our neighbors feel seen, supported, and encouraged on their journey to stability and self-determination.

At Project HOME, we believe that none of us are home until all of us are home. Thanks to your care and commitment, that vision shines brighter and moves closer to reality every day.

We're deeply grateful for our volunteers who bring hope, passion, and possibility to Project HOME’s work to prevent and end homelessness.