I returned to work on Monday December 28th to a very crowded second floor Day Area filled with a whole bunch of mixed emotions.
Throughout the day I was at times overwhelmed by numerous requests from clients to chat over what happened over the last weekend with our Digital Santa Claus Program. (aka. Christmas WishList Program sponsored by Homeless Partners)
Jorge with Volunteers from Bantrell
I cannot say anything other than — the event was nothing less than a wonderful success. There are of course inevitable problems that comes with this massive Christmas Spirited gift program, particularly as it is operated by volunteers who do their absolute best to create a caring program, but who do not work day-to-day with our clients.
A few hours had gone by since my arrival that morning and my energy level had started to fade. I was getting tired. Tired of hearing the few voices of dissatisfaction drowning out the countless voices of appreciation. I heard somewhere that people do not see all the work that was accomplished, people only see what was missed and not completed.
Recounting my day later that evening, I remembered one interaction very clearly. At one point, I was in the middle of the second floor surrounded by a few different clients when one person stood up from his chair and approached me. He handed me two booklets of bus tickets and said, “Jorge the Di has done so much for me over the last few years and I only see it fit I give these bus tickets to the Di in appreciation.”
I was speechless. One of the most wonderful things about my job are the great examples of warm-hearted good deeds where a person’s character shines so bright when things can get so dark.
Jorge thanks so much for the honesty. It isn’t always peaches and cream, but guaranteed, there is always that one story at the end of each shift that brings it back around. Happy New Year!!!!
Hi Jorge, I volunteered on Boxing Day for the Christmas Wish List, I don’t know how Mark and Natalie manage to pull this togehter but they do a fantastic job. Even the clients who were not sponsored were given a gift of some sort. Everyone was appreciative of what they were given and happy to recieve something. You can’t please everyone so I am thankful to the person who lifted your spirits with their kindness. Happy New Year Jorge, hope 2010 is good to you and yours.
hello jorge` I watched the x-mas videos awesome to see everyone if u can give Rene a hug for me .she is on 4th floor STAFF.IAM BACK HOMEin ONT.tell everyone i said hi.U can reply at this e-mail. HAPPY NEW YEAR!