April is Volunteer Appreciation Month and we are delighted to celebrate by casting the spotlight on one of our remarkable Ambassadors of Hospitality, Naomi Plate. Ambassadors of Hospitality play a vital role in fostering a culture of warmth, inclusion, and connection within our community. Naomi embodies this spirit through her compassionate engagement with our members, her ability to listen, and her dedication to creating an atmosphere of radical hospitality where everyone feels valued and welcomed.
The Power of Storytelling Returns: School for Recovery Class
Last year, Naomi embarked on a journey to share The Power of Storytelling with our community, infusing the Café with a sense of sacred hospitality through narrative exchange. Due to popular demand, we are thrilled to announce the return of “The Power of Storytelling” limited series School for Recovery Class, beginning in May. Naomi, alongside staff member Elyssa Hamilton, will co-facilitate this series guiding participants through story groups and writing workshops, culminating in story presentations in September, National Recovery Month. Stay tuned for more information on the dates.
Naomi’s deep appreciation for personal storytelling stems from her diverse life experiences including encounters with individuals from various backgrounds, beliefs, and life challenges. She eloquently expresses how listening to the narratives of others enlarges our worldview, improves our adaptability, nurtures empathy, and promotes healing. In Naomi’s words, “Everybody who breathes has a story. Despite the universal need to be heard some might shy away. The environment where stories are mined is critical for people to open up about themselves.“
Beyond Volunteering: Naomi’s Commitment to the Mission
For Naomi, Recovery Café Longmont is more than just a place; it’s where her heart resides. Reflecting on her journey with Recovery Café Longmont, Naomi shares how the Café has evolved since she first volunteered in 2019. Due to life changes in recent years, she found herself captivated by the profound connections and sense of safety cultivated in our community. Despite relocating from Longmont to Lafayette, Naomi remains dedicated to volunteering at the Cafe, driven by her passion for the deep connections forged within the space.
Naomi emphasizes the unique blend of simplicity and depth found within the Cafe’s environment, noting the unwavering support and camaraderie among staff, volunteers, and members. In her role as Ambassador of Hospitality, she is learning how to ask the right questions and create a safe space where individuals feel welcomed and valued. Through monthly Ambassador of Hospitality circles and ongoing support from the volunteer coordinator, Naomi finds fulfillment in her role and feels appreciated for her contributions.
Beyond volunteering her time, Naomi demonstrates her commitment to our mission by offering financial support as a monthly donor and championing the transformative work of Recovery Café Longmont. She applauds the cohesive teamwork and mutual trust among the Cafe’s staff, recognizing how the impact of this collective effort trickles into the larger community. “I trust that you all lead with your hearts and you can accomplish whatever you set your mind to.”
As we honor Naomi during Volunteer Appreciation Month, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to her and all our volunteers who enrich our community with their compassion, dedication, and unwavering support. Together, we continue to create a space where everyone’s story matters and everyone is welcomed with open arms.
If you’re interested in joining Naomi and our team of volunteers at Recovery Café Longmont, reach out to our volunteer coordinator Elyssa Hamilton or call 720-815-2885.
