Meet Gloria!
If you’ve been with us for a while now, you have seen the face of one of our amazing Impact Partners roaming the halls, welcoming our youngest Pause kiddos and sharing good news with parents at our Parent’s Night Out and Parent’s Day Out events.
Gloria has been volunteering with Pause in the nursery for awhile now - 5 years to be exact! As one of our Impact Partners, she has committed to coming at least once a month to Parents Night or Day Out to serve our kiddos! Because Gloria is SUPER awesome, she typically comes to every. single. event! #RockstarStatus
Professionally, Gloria is an Occupational Therapist for the Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities, but in her free time she enjoys spending time with family and friends, crafts/sewing, and reading books. Fun fact about Gloria - she has been making baby quilts for friends and relatives for the past 35 years! #ThatsALotOfQuilts
Let’s get to know Gloria a bit better!
Why did you choose to volunteer?
I have always tried to volunteer since I was in high school (starting as a candy striper at Mercy Hospital in Hamilton). I have worked in church nurseries, worked the phone at MDA telethons, wrapped Christmas gifts for seniors in nursing homes, and of course Pause. I feel it is always good to give back when you can!
Why do you continue to volunteer with Pause?
Working for over 30 years with children with various disabilities, Pause was a perfect fit for me. When Lisa (Pause Executive Director) came to talk to our department, I signed up right away. I also like that volunteers can pick and choose when they want to volunteer.
Why is it important for you to serve with Pause every month?
In my job I have heard the difficulties parents have, not only finding time for themselves, but connecting with other families that share their journey. I have seen firsthand the positive impact this organization has had on the kids and their families.
What is your favorite part about volunteering with Pause?
I mean playing with the kids of course! But also talking to the parents before and after just hearing how excited they are for the events. It is humbling to hear how much the events mean to them!
Do you feel like you’re making an impact?
I do. Beyond the child with special needs, I also think it should be pointed out how important it is that the typical siblings are also a part of the events as they sometimes have to take a back seat for their siblings needs. When I have a sibling in the room I always try to give the brother/sister lots of positive attention and a boatload of fun. That is an impact that can’t be measured.
Gloria - we are incredibly grateful that you choose to spend your time with our kiddos. The impact that you have on their little lives is immeasurable.
This is CAN DO. This is COMMUNITY. This is YOUR SUPPORT.
