Big Hearts for Homeless Families
Hannah-Office Liaison
“My favorite part of volunteering at Haven House is knowing that I’m making an impact in my community. Although I’m just one person, volunteering here has helped me stay informed and educated on local resources for people who have been displaced.
DeAnna-Office Liaison
“Seeing the sweet little babies that run around and interacting with them makes my heart smile. I would say that this is a peaceful place to spend your time. The staff and the residents are nice and helpful.”
Craig-Barton Community Days
“Started volunteering in 2021. There was an opportunity to build a playscape for Haven House that one of our Project Managers came across while looking for volunteer work in the Lansing Area. Barton Malow always looks for opportunities to make the communities we live and work in better than we found them. Helping Haven House was an easy decision.”
Marc- Shelter Shopper
“This was something I had never done before. So doing something for the first time like this is exciting. Of course, the mission of Haven House in serving the community is critical and deserves our support. Being able to assist in the food and groceries at Haven House allows staff to work more with the clients.”
Alexis- Office Liaison, Activity Leader
“I started volunteering because I needed to increase my volunteer hours for dental school, but it has become more and turned into something more. I really enjoy feeling like I am making a difference and impact in the kids’ lives and allow their parents to take some time for themselves.”
Katelyn- Activity Leader
“I heard about Haven House through my Pre-Dental Club and love kids, so I felt this was a great position for me. I love the way I can make a difference in these children’s days and try to bring positive energy in their lives.
It is such a rewarding feeling seeing how excited the kids get when the playroom is open, and how much fun they have playing with us.”
Sue- Shelter Shopper
“I retired in May 2024. I wanted to feel helpful and give back to my community. I love being a part of the larger organization that provides help to struggling families.”
Riley- Inventory Tracking
“I started volunteering at Haven House because I had been thinking about volunteering for a while and the opportunities here seemed to fit best with what I was interested in. My favorite part of volunteering at Haven House is the people, everyone here is super nice and helpful! I’ve felt welcomed here since the start.
If you are considering volunteering at Haven House, you should do it! It’s nice to feel like you helped in some way after each volunteer shift. There are also many volunteer options to choose from so you can find a position that works for you!”
Saetbyul – Dinner Prep
“I wanted to use my time in meaningful ways at Haven House. It is worth it. I recommend.”
Sophia – Playroom Volunteer, Meal Prep, Office Liaison
“I live around the area and have always loved Haven House’s organization and impact on the community. I also work at a doctor’s office that serves a lot of underprivileged patients, so I really wanted to find a place where I can continue to help.
Everyone is so friendly and it’s a great way to help make an impact no matter how small it may be.”
Austin- Lawn Care Volunteer
“I want to help the community in a low-stress environment. Knowing that I am taking stress off the plate of those with the power to make a bigger impact.”
Olivia – Lawn Care Volunteer
“My husband and I started volunteering at Haven House because there was a need for free lawn care. With the current barriers many nonprofits face, we felt inclined to provide this service. It takes stress off of staff, allows residents to have useable outdoor space and maintains the welcoming environment of the organization.”
Erid – Office Volunteer
“I have been volunteering with Haven House since 2023. I love seeing the energy of the children staying here. Their happiness reminds me of my childhood.
It is the best opportunity I have come across thus far.”
Rebecca – Office Volunteer
“I have been volunteering with Haven House for 9 years. I had been thinking about volunteering for a while; I wanted to do something for my community. I finally took the plunge and contacted some different service organizations. Haven House responded right away, and the rest is history. It was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It has allowed me to focus on others and not so much on myself.
As a front desk volunteer, my goal is to be a positive and friendly face for all those staying at Haven House. The Haven House staff works so hard, so I try to do as many things as I can during my volunteer shift to make their jobs a little easier. I love volunteering with an organization that is so dedicated to the homeless and assisting them on their path to self-sufficiency.”
Liz – Office Volunteer
“I’ve lived near and donated to Haven House for about 20 years. After I retired from MSU, and after COVID restrictions were lifted, I wanted to get more directly involved. Beginning in 2022 I started spending every Tuesday morning as an office liaison and recently added Thursdays. I love that my neighborhood is home to such a fantastic resource.
My favorite part of volunteering at Haven House is feeling that I am a small part of the solution to one of our nation’s devastating problems. While talking to homeless parents seeking shelter can be heartbreaking, it’s equally heartwarming to feel their gratitude. It’s clear that all the staff and other volunteers are committed to helping improve the lives of these families.”