Yesterday was a special day for NEST Community Shelter as we had the opportunity to share our volunteer stories live on WIMS AM 1420. Harry Holtkamp, our Executive Director, was joined by several incredible volunteers who opened their hearts and shared why volunteering at NEST has become such a meaningful part of their lives. This was an impactful half-hour in our regular monthly series on WIMS.
The Power of Personal Stories
What made this radio show so impactful wasn’t just the information we shared about our programs; it was the genuine, heartfelt stories from our volunteers themselves. Each person who spoke brought their unique perspective on what it means to serve alongside our guests.
Kristen Noonan, our former board president, emphasized how NEST makes volunteering manageable and straightforward. “They don’t overextend you,” she shared. “They tell you exactly what you’re getting into.” Kristen’s Monday nights at NEST have become her favorite nights of the week, where she gets to witness the encouragement and support our guests offer to one another.
Terry Greetham shared one of the most moving testimonies of the day. After his first volunteer experience, he found himself overwhelmed by gratitude, realizing how much we often take for granted. His story reminded us that volunteering at NEST isn’t just about what we give; it’s about what we receive in return. Terry’s experience led to a profound realization about the dignity and resilience of our guests.
Lisa Tsaparikos called in to share about her role in our “Flight School” program, where she helps new guests navigate available services. She spoke beautifully about the fulfillment that comes from seeing guests achieve their goals, especially when someone finally secures housing after facing multiple setbacks.
Michael Ducey, one of our newer volunteers, highlighted something many people don’t realize: NEST offers opportunities for “discreet and quiet” service. He appreciates being able to serve a portion of our community that often feels invisible, without needing to “stand on a soapbox.”
Jenni Alexander represented the LaPorte County Family YMCA leadership team, sharing how their group volunteer experience was “amazing, humbling, and rewarding.” She emphasized that only five minutes of training was required, and how grateful our guests are to see volunteers.
Making It Simple
Throughout the show, our volunteers consistently emphasized how NEST makes volunteering accessible:
- Flexible scheduling: We work with whatever time you can give
- Minimal training: Most volunteer opportunities require just a brief orientation
- Clear expectations: We tell you exactly what you’re getting into
- Immediate impact: You can see the difference you’re making right away
Multiple Ways to Get Involved
The radio show highlighted various volunteer opportunities:
- Meal preparation and service: Our most popular entry point, taking about 1.5-2 hours
- Intake assistance: Helping guests check in during our busy evening hours
- Flight school mentoring: One-on-one guidance for new guests
- Administrative support: Behind-the-scenes work that’s equally important
- Skilled trades: Using your professional skills to help maintain our 110-year-old building
Looking Ahead: LaPorte Opening
We’re excited to announce that NEST will return to LaPorte this fall, operating from October 15th through April 15th at the depot. This expansion means we need even more volunteers to fill various shifts:
- Opening shift (5:15-7:30 PM)
- Site monitor (7:00-11:00 PM)
- Dinner service (around 6:00-6:45 PM)
- Overnight (11:00 PM-7:00 AM)
Join Our Community
What struck us most about yesterday’s show was how our volunteers have become a true community. They support each other, they’ve formed lasting friendships, and they’ve found purpose in serving alongside our guests.
If you’re interested in learning more about volunteering with NEST, please:
- Email Janelle Knowlton at jknolton@nestcommunityshelter.org
- Call us at 219-276-7582
- Visit our website at nestcommunityshelter.org
- Check our Facebook page for current needs and opportunities
You can also find us this weekend at Singing Sands Festival, where we’ll have a tent set up and a team participating in the Community Challenge sand sculpting competition.
A Final Thought
As Harry mentioned on the show, “This is not a sad place. It’s a happy place.” Our volunteers don’t just serve meals or check in guests, they bring hope, dignity, and community to people who need it most. When you volunteer at NEST, you’re not just helping others; you’re joining a family of people who believe in second chances and the power of community support.
We hope yesterday’s radio show inspired you to consider how you might get involved. Whether you can give an hour a week or a few hours a month, there’s a place for you at NEST. Come see what our volunteers have discovered: you truly do get more than you give.
