This month we honor Lisa Blau as our Volunteer of the Month. We are especially proud to celebrate Lisa as we kick off April and National Volunteer Month.
Lisa has been a vital part of The Sharing Shelf since 2016 – ten years! She went back to work a few years ago, after staying home to raise her children, but continues to carve out time for The Sharing Shelf.
Initially intrigued by the unique concept of a “Clothing Bank,” Lisa was drawn to our mission of addressing clothing insecurity in Westchester County. For Lisa, the motivation to keep coming back is the knowledge that she is helping others. As a volunteer in Teen Boutique, she has seen firsthand the confidence and joy a new outfit can bring to a teen.
While she finds great joy in the simple act of “shopping” for others and building connections with our staff and fellow volunteers, she is most moved by the opportunity to support children and teens in crisis. Lisa shares:
“What has stuck with me most is when I have packed bags of clothing for children or teens that have had to leave their homes without their belongings due to domestic incidents. To have to leave your home under those circumstances is just heartbreaking, and while new clothing will not change their situation, it can alleviate one source of stress just a little.”
Whether she is packing a wardrobe for a young person fleeing a domestic incident or being an assistant preschool teacher to two-year-olds, Lisa’s heart for service is clear. When she isn’t at The Sharing Shelf, Lisa stays busy traveling, thrifting, and enjoying life with her husband of 25 years and their two children.
Thank you Lisa for your dedication to our mission, the warmth you bring and your contagious smile and spirit!
