Meet Anna Armenta, a 23-year-old single mother living in Phoenix. Anna has been volunteering on and off at St. Vincent de Paul since she was 14 –- nearly 10 years!
But here is what’s unique about Anna’s volunteer experience. While she has always enjoyed serving in the family dining room with her siblings over the years, her recent time here has been quite different. In Anna’s words, ‘it has been eye-opening.’
After three years away and with her mother’s encouragement, she arrived at our campus one month ago and was asked to volunteer in the office this time, working on projects and creating samples for our volunteers who help at our Hearts and Hands events. She also serves as a Project Leader on the day of the event.
Anna’s Volunteer Coordinator, Michele Larson, immediately noticed Anna’s creativity and resourcefulness. One of the first activities she designed for Hearts and Hands, a monthly event for families, was a Minions can. She saw how many recycled materials were available, and instead of letting them go to waste she wanted to find a way to use them that would appeal to children and be useful in their lives.
“It was perfect because kids love Minions, and since they are going back to school right now, they can be used as a pencil holder, or at home as a fun silverware holder.”
That’s only one of Anna’s great ideas! But her true eye-opening experience came from the first time she set foot in our Special Ministries area. Housed on campus, this program welcomes homeless guests to come in and shower, receive clothing, shoes, counseling and referral services.
Anna was overwhelmed to see the gratitude of each guest she helped. It made her realize how thankful she is for everything in her life, from family and friends, to running water, and a roof over her head.
Immediately after leaving this volunteer experience, she went out and bought a rose for each mother in her family who supported her during a very difficult time in her life. She shared with each of them about her experience working in Special Ministries and let them know just how thankful she was for their incredible support and love, as she would not be where she is today without them.
From serving at SVdP to serving at home, Anna truly has a compassionate and giving spirit.
“Anna embodies what it means to be a great volunteer. She does it from the heart, with her whole heart! She understands the mission of St. Vincent de Paul and is dedicated to helping us help others,” says Michele.
And it’s not only in her attitude and actions. Since starting one month ago, Anna has already logged 62 volunteer hours!
While Anna is currently looking for a job, she has already decided to continue her volunteer work here and hopes she can get her siblings to join her.
The Vitals
Age: 23
Hometown: Phoenix
Favorite Movie: Up
Favorite food: Super nachos
Favorite place in Phoenix: Downtown
Did you know our volunteer opportunities include working on our urban farm, serving in the dining room, working in our bike shop, making pizza on Friday nights, and more? Visit our website to see a complete list and sign up today!
