My Nonprofit Reviews

From 2001 to 2003, I volunteered weekly or bi-weekly at the Women's Hearth (then Women's Drop-In Center), providing "floor support," and teaching beginning Spanish classes to the members. Then I moved away from Spokane but kept in touch, and in December 2008 had the opportunity to return and volunteer at the Hearth daily for a month. This program is unique, welcoming, and wonderful enough that it was worth a month away from home and a trip from California to Washington in the winter. The Hearth serves all women, meeting any pressing needs that they have. Some participants only hope for a cup of coffee and a warm room on a winter day. Others come to make the most of creative opportunities offered at the center. Some women attend recovery groups. Still others consider the members of the community at the Hearth their best friends and only family. I have seen many women "come into bloom" at the Hearth. Two stories especially stick with me. A schizophrenic woman found consistency, friendships, and an outlet in creative writing. She attributes her success in living independently to the support received at the Hearth. Another woman sat in a chair facing out the window for weeks, reacting angrily to anyone who tried to engage her. Out of the blue, she realized that she was in a safe place. One day she participated in an art group, trusting the people around her a bit more. The next day she helped in the kitchen and shared some of her hard life story while she worked. She was soon on a waiting list for Section 8 housing, thanks to the help of case managers at the Hearth.

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