Traverse City Record-Eagle

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  • Lisa Perkins

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November 16, 2009

Triage volunteers provide assistance, hope

By LISA PERKINS

TRAVERSE CITY -- A human voice at the end of the line can be a great comfort to callers in distress.

Volunteers at Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency's Triage department have the first contact with community members calling in for assistance with programs that include financial management, foreclosure counseling, crisis payment for heat and utilities and Meals on Wheels.

"Our volunteers give the person on the other end of the line someone to talk to. They are so used to being told 'no', hearing a voice gives them confidence that we can help," said Latitia Garthe-Shiner, an Americorp member who trains volunteers.

Garthe-Shiner said the ever increasing need for community based services has caused an increase in need for volunteers as well.

"Having a good staff of volunteers frees up our staff members to do their job," said Garthe-Shiner, noting that training is provided to community members who wish to offer their time.

Volunteers provide basic office support to counsellors, answer phones and guide callers through the basic assistance programs and services offered.

Volunteers must be 18 years old or older and be able to volunteer at least three hours per month with a weekly commitment preferred.

Kate Dale, a volunteer since July, says helping people has been a very rewarding experience.

"I feel very accepted here and it is great to be able to help people," Dale said.

For more information, call Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency at 947-3780 or 800-632-7334.

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