Genesis Women’s Shelter is an independent nonprofit organization created in 1985 to provide safety, shelter and support for women and children who have experienced domestic violence, and to raise awareness regarding its cause, prevalence, and impact.  What started as a 7-bedroom facility in the mid 80’s has grown to an establishment that now offers children’s programs, a 24-hour crisis hotline, individual/group therapy, parenting classes, professional casework, 12-month transitional housing, in-house legal department and so much more.

While volunteering, Mina Tran had the opportunity to work in the Genesis Thrift Store on the Holiday Program Initiative as an “Elf”. This program allows community members to adopt a Genesis family for the holidays and donate gifts for a family in need. This thrift store is unique to all Genesis clients as they can shop at the store free of cost. The thrift store accepts donations of furniture, clothing, accessories and more and all proceeds made by community shoppers goes directly back into the shelter’s programs.

Here’s what Mina said about her time volunteering:

1. What impact were you hoping to make in your community during your Liift Day? During my Liift day, I hoped I was able to make someone’s Christmas a little better. During the holiday season, it can be difficult for some to put gifts under the tree, so it was nice to see all the donations and assist in delivering the presents.
2. What do you believe is your greatest strength and how did that help you in your volunteer opportunities? My greatest strength is developing a plan and taking charge of the situation. I was paired up with someone else during my Liift day and it was only the second day of the Holiday program so they were still ironing out the kinks. I created a process for my buddy to efficiently take care of the tasks and decrease the waiting-around time.
3. What was your key takeaway from this experience? My key takeaway was that everyone needs a little help sometimes and if we are in a place to do so, we should try our best. After looking at Genesis’ internal process, the wish lists of families, and the donations….I felt compelled to sign up for an angel family. I also shared about my angel family to my mom, and she wanted to pitch in as well, so we’re excited to make this family’s Christmas!

Mina’s dedication to this cause was the shining light for a family that needed a second chance, and her group was able to fulfill the orders of 8 families!

To learn more about the programs Genesis Women’s Shelter offers, please visit the link here.