Volunteers of Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area (LSSNCA) have played a pivotal role in addressing the needs of program participants with dedication and humility. They embody the spirit of welcome and community-building. They create a warm and inclusive environment, helping new neighbors feel supported as they embark on pivotal journeys in their lives. Whether it’s assisting with transportation, filing paperwork, helping enroll children in school, finding employment, or understanding the nuances of a new culture, volunteers serve as trusted allies, offering guidance and friendship every step of the way. Their commitment fosters a sense of belonging and connection, enriching the fabric of our communities and creating a more welcoming and compassionate society. This month’s blog is a heartfelt tribute to the incredible volunteers who embody the essence of service and solidarity, elevating LSSNCA’s mission with unwavering passion and dedication.
Ron‘s journey into volunteering with LSSNCA stemmed from a deeply personal place. A retired consultant at Ernst & Young, Ron realized a lingering desire to contribute meaningfully, particularly in a one-on-one capacity. Inspired by his father’s legacy as a disabled veteran, Ron felt compelled to assist transitioning military personnel and veterans into the job market. In 2021, Ron found himself drawn to LSSNCA after witnessing the challenges faced by Afghan Allies post-Taliban era. Reflecting on his journey Ron believes volunteering with LSSNCA is “a labor of love”.
After reaching out to LSSNCA for volunteer opportunities, Ron was asked to be a driver – helping new neighbors get to and from appointments and job interviews. However, he saw an opportunity to contribute further and shared his experience working with veterans. At this time, LSSNCA was welcoming hundreds of Afghans at their offices each day. The more hands-on deck, the better. Our Fairfax Office set Ron up with a desk, and he started supporting program participants with their job search and resume building. “I employed the same strategies I used in assisting veterans transitioning into civilian life,” recalled Ron. “As more CVs poured in, it became evident that additional volunteers were necessary. Fast forward to today, I am proud to say I work with a team of a dozen volunteers.”
Since November 2021, Ron and his highly experienced team of job assistance volunteers have assisted more than 160 Afghan Allies and refugees with resume reviews, practice interviews and job search assistance. Through him and his team’s mentorships, more than 70 program participants have found employment in their areas of education and work experience. For Ron, though, the bonds forged with fellow volunteers and those he assists go beyond mentorship; they have become friendships built on shared experiences and a mutual desire to make a difference.
Lucie‘s journey into volunteering with LSSNCA began with a simple desire to find purpose in retirement. After retiring as a French teacher six years ago, Lucie sought opportunities to utilize her skills and contribute meaningfully to her community. After learning about LSSNCA in her church, she was intrigued by LSSNCA’s mission and our commitment to aiding immigrants and refugees. Lucie saw volunteering as a chance to make a tangible difference, especially during the time when anti-immigration rhetoric reached a peak.
“In 2018, 2019, and 2020, there was a lot of negative stuff going on like banning Muslim arrivals, speaking badly about immigrants, and limiting the number of refugees,” she said. “I was very concerned about the state of our nation, and volunteering with LSSNCA made me feel better because I was supporting an organization that was welcoming those fleeing life-threatening situations. I just admire people who leave everything to come here and try to make a difference, and I believe they deserve to be welcomed. I’m very proud to be volunteering with an organization that is doing a great job.”
Lucie also grew up in the Middle East and parts of Africa since her father was a cultural diplomat, and the connection to the international community holds great meaning for her, a reminder of her childhood. “The names, the foods, and culture of many of my colleagues and the people we serve are very familiar and nostalgic for me.”
Howard’s LSSNCA volunteering experience began with a conversation with a friend deeply involved in refugee advocacy. She shared the story of a refugee, an emergency room doctor from Afghanistan, who found himself in the United States needing costly recertification courses to continue his career. Faced with financial barriers, he turned to driving for Uber to make ends meet. Following this, Howard reached out to LSSNCA to explore volunteering opportunities.
Having a background in communication law, Howard initially sought to support professionals transitioning into the U.S. job market but later realized that mentoring was a much better fit.
“I met a young girl from Afghanistan with aspirations of becoming an immigration lawyer to aid fellow Afghan refugees. She was determined to enroll at George Washington University, the same university I attended. I facilitated a meeting with the international admissions officer. He took her through the application process. She didn’t have her asylum approved yet, so she had to wait until she got it. She got approved last week. In the meantime, she secured an internship with the county government and became a certified paralegal. Now, she’s being offered a full-time position [in her early 20s], without even having finished college yet. Witnessing her journey unfold has been nothing short of amazing.”
Mentoring her not only fostered a bond with her family and culture but also opened Howard’s eyes to the richness of human connection beyond borders. From sampling spicy cuisine at her uncle’s restaurant to receiving heartfelt words in her recommendation letter, Howard finds the experience deeply rewarding and remarked, “It’s a stark contrast to my previous career as a lawyer, where my clients were affluent and distant from the struggles of everyday life.”
Patrice, deeply connected to her immigrant roots, felt a profound sense of duty in welcoming refugees. As an LSSNCA volunteer, she witnessed firsthand the resilience of immigrant communities. For Patrice, volunteering was not just a way to give back but a reaffirmation of her family’s journey and the shared experiences of immigrants.
In 2019, Patrice began volunteering with LSSNCA, initially assisting with World Refugee Day, and later using her van to welcome families. As the granddaughter of Italian immigrants, the experience resonated deeply with Patrice.
“I remember the struggles my grandparents faced when they first arrived in this country, and now, being able to assist others on a similar journey feels incredibly fulfilling.”
Driven by a desire to do more, Patrice started providing English lessons to members of the TEA Club, a supportive space for immigrant women to learn English and build connections.
In May 2022, Patrice joined LSSNCA’s board of directors and broadened her role in the organization by supporting initiatives to expand volunteers while continuing to volunteer with the TEA club.
“The Tea Club became a sanctuary, especially after the tumultuous events in Kabul. Women, resilient and determined, sought solace and community in our classes. Many were professionals back home, now navigating a new language and culture. Witnessing their progress, from obtaining driver’s licenses to forming bonds within the community, was deeply gratifying,” Patrice recalls.
Reflecting on her family’s journey, from factory worker to educated professional, Patrice sees the broader narrative of America’s immigrant story. “Each individual contributes in their own way, enriching the fabric of our society. Through volunteerism, we bridge divides and dispel misconceptions, fostering meaningful connections that transcend borders,” says Patrice.
If you’re interested in learning more about volunteer opportunities, visit our site or email the LSSNCA engagement team.
Serve Boldly 