Merrill Pierce is one of Chalmer’s amazing volunteers. Whenever Merrill’s name is mentioned, it is always followed by ‘there is nothing Merrill can’t do.” At our West location, she works on the food pantry line, always ensuring that our Guests feel welcome and are well taken care of. She helps with food tracking, making sure that everything is ready for distribution. Merrill also volunteers downtown during our Tuesday cafes and is often seen chatting with the guests, doing puzzles and checking in with folks. She will put everything aside to greet a new Guest and make sure that they know about all the services that Chalmers provides. Merrill regularly transports cases of food, cases of hygiene products and anything else that needs to go to our West location. She is always willing to do whatever is needed and is very enthusiastic.

 

Along with volunteering at our food pantry and cafe, Merrill has been instrumental in planning and facilitating several events for Chalmers. Leading the planning of Harvest Bowls, Merrill was the point of contact for our staff and other volunteers to ensure that necessary preparations were made for the event. On the day of the event, Merrill was there serving soup to attendees and cleaning up with volunteers when the night had come to a close. Merrill has also assisted in facilitating the Gathering Sparks / James Gordon Benefit concert, acting as the liaison between staff and performers. 

 

Merrill is invested in the success of Chalmers, and repeatedly demonstrates the care and consideration she has for this organization. Thank you Merrill for all your hard work!

 

Merrill’s thoughts:

1. What brought you to Chalmers?

“When I fully retired from teaching I wanted to do some volunteer work with the time that I now had, and Chalmers was already familiar to me because our Church has been a good supporter for years. The appeal to me was the philosophy that Chalmers embraces: "dignity and respect for all"  It was a very welcoming community of volunteers and staff.

 

2. What do you like about volunteering at Chalmers?

 I like volunteering at Chalmers because it is a community that cares for each other and the guests.  We get to know the stories that the guests bring and enjoy conversation with them. Ideas that volunteers suggest are taken into consideration, not dismissed.  We have lots of laughs and also moments of compassion.  

 

3. How have you seen Chalmers change lives?

 I have seen Chalmers change lives in many ways.  The relieved look on the faces of guests who are given food that they need, a winter coat, hat and gloves if needed, free tickets to a Storm game, shoes and boots that are needed, a safe place to relax, stay warm or cool depending on the season, or even have a short nap, get people in contact with agencies that can help them, people who are listened to.  All of these help change lives in big or small ways.