Mary Beth Larson, of Buchanan, is a volunteer for Redbud Area Ministries. She has volunteered for the nonprofit for about 20 years.

 

What are your duties as a volunteer at Redbud Area Ministries?

I work the front desk. I am the first person people meet on Tuesdays. I greet them, take their information and help them with whatever they need help with. [People can pick up] food, clothing, personal items and small household things. I pass them on for some of them and help them with others.

What first inspired you to be a volunteer for RAM?

Well, I retired and decided that I wanted to do volunteer work. This was one of the choices that I made at that time. I [have] enjoyed it.

What do you say you get out of being a volunteer at RAM?

I get out of it [the chance] of helping someone that may be in need. The chance to help people feel good about themselves and helping them to have a better day on the day that they stop in.

How do you feel RAM helps the Buchanan community?

I think RAM is really important in our community and a place where people know that they can come for help if they need help. There seem to be more and more people nation-wide that need help.

What is your favorite part of your volunteer job?

Talking with the clients.

Why would you encourage other people to volunteer at RAM?

It is filled with volunteers… and we all work hard, everyone here does. It gets you a good feeling to be able to help someone else.