Volunteer Spotlight: Christine
In addition to regular, weekly volunteer roles, we also have special projects and on-call volunteer opportunities. Volunteers help at our events, assist with administrative tasks, pick up and deliver donations, and more. One special project volunteer is Christine Kidwell, Move-In Kit Champion! Each quarter, Christine researches the best prices, orders home goods and supplies and leads groups to assemble the Move-in Kits for participants moving from our shelter programs to permanent housing.
Meet Christine:
How did you learn about Transition Projects and first get involved?
I started volunteering in 2020 just after my husband died. A social worker suggested that I donate his clothes to Transition Projects. I was so impressed with the work you do that I’ve made this work my primary philanthropy ever since.
What keeps you volunteering with Transition Projects?
I support Transition Projects because I know that helping people find a way off the streets is not about waving a magic wand, it is patient and consistent steps of a team to keep a person on the path. It is also different for each and every person. Portland’s well-meaning citizens struggle to understand how this crisis can take so long, but it just does. Move-in Kits are absolutely crucial to keeping people housed. They are tangible evidence that the community sees a person as valuable, capable, and responsible. It matters.
Do you have a favorite moment or memory you would like to share?
My favorite moment while assembling Move-in Kits is seeing a small mountain of 50 stuffed laundry baskets. Each one will be a special moment when a person enters their new home for the first time. It makes me tear up every time.