Bridget Smith was looking for something to do. Unable to accept a paying job because of her Social Security status, Smith decided to find volunteer work.

While walking her dog in the park one day, Smith stopped to check out an outdoor volunteer fair. She was concerned about finding volunteer work during the work week that didn’t require a car, but after speaking with a Volunteer Connection representative, she found the perfect placement with HospiceCare of Boulder and Broomfield Counties in the HospiceCare & Share Thrift Shop.

HospiceCare & Share Thrift Shop raises funds to support the nonprofit HospiceCare, which provides compassionate end-of-life care, comforts the grieving and educates the community.

Chris Jones of HospiceCare said, “In the short time Bridget has volunteered for us, she has become an essential part of our volunteer staff. She happily tackles any task that we ask of her.” Smith sorts new donations, straightens merchandise on the sales floor and removes merchandise that cannot be sold. “I love it there,” Smith said. “I love working with friendly people.”

Her team of volunteer co-workers couldn’t agree more. “We all enjoy (Bridget’s) sense of teamwork, her enthusiasm and ‘can-do’ attitude. When she is given a project to do, she doesn’t stop until it is completed, no matter how arduous the task,” said Jones.

Smith volunteers for HospiceCare two days a week: a full day on Monday and a half day on Tuesday. In addition to the time spent in the shop, Smith spends three hours round trip on the bus from her home in Longmont. “I think it’s fun,” she said, regarding her commute.

For information about volunteering with HospiceCare of Boulder and Broomfield Counties or other agencies, call the Volunteer Connection at 303-444-4904, or go to our Volunteer Central.