What inspired you to volunteer at SMJH?
After moving to C’ville from Northern Virginia in the Fall of 2014, a new musical acquaintance who played the piano at SMJH told me about this opportunity. I became a regular volunteer shortly after and stumbled upon the Caring Embrace knitting program while I was performing.
What do you like best about volunteering at SMJH?
Feeling a part of a whole building of professionals and volunteers who truly care about the patients and visitors. A cold clinical atmosphere is not what you find; it is rather warm and welcoming, and I find my place in making some of that happen, whether it is with music or the comforting touch of a handmade shawl.
Do you volunteer elsewhere in the community? Where?
Singing with the Oratorio Society and serving on their board occupied quite a few years. Presently, I am the membership chair of the Wednesday Music Club, which supports music education for the youth of our area. I play the piano in a Memory care facility weekly and I enjoy baking for various charitable fundraising events in Charlottesville. My local needlework group supports an annual service project and we are currently stitching Hearts for Hospice.
What do you enjoy doing out in the community?
You will find Jim and I attending musical performances at our area churches as well as with Virginia Opera and the Virginia Theater Festival. I also enjoy the HD opera series from the MET at the Paramount and we are still exploring the culinary offerings that abound. Our daughter is a UVa graduate and introduced us to the wonderful eating experiences in this area.
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