Lend a Hand (and Enjoy Yourself While You’re at It)

APRIL 2019

BY BARB HIGMAN and MARILYN WEDENOJA

Pat Doyle, left, and Marilyn Wedenoja in the NAMI Washtenaw office.

When longtime NAMI Washtenaw County member Dr. Marilyn Wedenoja let me know she was retiring from her position as a social work professor at Eastern Michigan University and interested in volunteering in our office, I was thinking of putting together a proposal that would provide an opportunity for the many prospective office assisters to volunteer on a regular basis. Our executive director, Judy Gardner, supported this effort, and in January 2019 I asked Marilyn if she would be willing to help me get things rolling. We are now offering a new volunteer opportunity called Lend a Hand.

The Lend a Hand volunteer group meets on Thursday mornings from 10 a.m. to noon at the NEW Center. It is a chance for everyone connected to NAMI to pitch in together and help with needed office work such as folding brochures, preparing mailings and, in particular, assembling information packets for the new Washtenaw County Community Mental Health CARES program.

You may submit a volunteer application online by clicking here or talk to our volunteer coordinator, Pat Doyle (313-510-9333), about this and other volunteer opportunities. Then come join the group whenever you can and share a cup of coffee and refreshments while you help out in a supportive atmosphere.

For more information contact Barb Higman at the NAMI office (734-994-6611) or Marilyn Wedenoja (734-355-1364). Thanks for your help in spreading the word about this chance to help and enjoy the company of other volunteers! All volunteers may request a letter each week that documents their contribution.

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