Volunteer Spotlight: Sandi

“As I get older, I’m realizing that work is not the priority; filling your cup and giving back in a human way is more important.”

After finding fulfillment serving those in need at a COVID-19 recovery center at the Boulder Shelter, mom-of-two and registered nurse Sandi continues to fill spaces with love and support at Recovery Café Longmont.

“I’ve been volunteering here for two years. Being a part of the growth, seeing the staff members blossom, and hearing people’s stories – it fulfills my soul.” She explained, a smile on her face. In fact, Sandi is rarely not smiling. Saturdays at the Café are fast and furious; members show up at noon, eat lunch, and head into their Recovery Circle – and that’s a wrap!

The whirlwind Saturdays don’t intimidate Sandi, though. Despite never knowing what the weekend will bring, her presence is a mainstay and a comfort to the small staff who are running the show. “Sandi is a ray of light,” Lead Peer Support Specialist Sabrina shared.

“Being here brings me out of my shell,” Sandi said. Although she is shy, your first conversation with her feels like chatting with a friend you’ve known for years. Sandi is compassionate and warm, and even when she is met with challenging personalities, she handles them with grace.

Calm and cheerful, Sandi spends her free time gardening, reading, cooking, and singing. An oncology and (former) hospice nurse, Sandi is no stranger to providing comfort and showing genuine care through people’s most challenging times. These qualities truly shine at the Café, where she has stepped into her role as a volunteer with enthusiasm and dedication.

“The microcosm of humanity that exists in this basement is unlike any other space. All these lived experiences are coming together in a space that fosters connection and acceptance,” she explained, “and bringing people together over these normal everyday things like sharing a meal allows humans to just be humans.”

Giving our members a space to feel comfortable, find familiarity and friendship is Recovery Café’s special sauce. Without the support of volunteers like Sandi, the transformative experience of finding joy, stability, and belonging in community would not be possible.