Volunteers contribute hours of time to CTC each year, helping to strengthen our programs for children and provide additional support for families. We’re celebrating Volunteer Appreciation Month by highlighting just a few of our remarkable volunteers. They are such an integral part of CTC’s team!
Volunteer Spotlight: Nhi
Nhi joined our team in January as a program support volunteer helping with childcare for special events, social skills groups and translation projects. Nhi worked in Vietnam as a psychologist helping families with children who have special needs. She has a keen ability to help kids stay engaged and build on a simple activity like playing a game of hot potato. Her thoughtful encouragement really sets a foundation for kids to feel included and successful in any activity they try.
Fun Facts about Nhi
I like sports, especially soccer and dance. I love music and theater as well. I wish that I could sing and dance like Shakira. I also love projects I can do by hand such as crocheting scarves and hats and making scrapbooks.
Why do you choose to volunteer with CTC? And, if you could encourage someone else to volunteer at CTC, what would you say?
I found the volunteer opportunity with CTC via Volunteer Match. When I did some research about CTC, I was immediately impressed by the motto “Celebrate what is. Commit to what can be.” It’s very short but conveys a lot of meaning, especially the strong belief in the uniqueness of each child and the way they develop.
Then, I read the “Does it sound like you” part of the web site [on CTC’s Careers page] and I was convinced that this is a right place for me – “dedicated colleagues” sharing and learning, encouraging “mentorship,” “love to laugh,” and above all, a family-based approach where the key roles of family members are valued. All of these elements combined to serve one goal: helping children with their unique needs reaching their utmost potential.
CTC fosters a supportive, encouraging environment. People work with smiles on their faces, and I feel this is a place where I can comfortably be myself and enjoy my work. If you would like to use your time meaningfully and enjoy warm relationships, this is a place you always want to come back to and be a part of.
Volunteer Spotlight: Kim
Kim joined our team in January as a program support volunteer helping in our community playgroup!
As a retired Highline School District para-educator, Kim spent many years helping support and care for children with special needs. Kim’s gentle and patient nature makes it easy for kiddos and their families to connect with her, as she always waits to take their lead. Her love for working with children shines through each week and has helped make this group a really fun and warm environment for kids to play and learn.
Fun Facts about Kim
I love working with children who have special needs. My hobbies are crocheting and listening to audio books. And my bestie since our son passed away is my Lhasa Opso dog.
Why do you choose to volunteer with CTC? And, if you could encourage someone else to volunteer at CTC, what would you say?
One day during playgroup, I was sitting on the floor and a little boy came up, sat on my lap and started to play. He’d put objects into holes, I’d take them out, and he’d do it again and again. We played together without using words for quite some time. I’ve always said that I learn from the children.
Volunteer Spotlight: Tess
Tess joined our Team in September as programs support volunteer helping in social skills groups and with childcare for parent education classes and special events. Tess attends the University of Washington Tacoma and is studying to becoming an OT. Tess brings such a calm and positive energy to her work, which helps kiddos feel very comfortable with her. Tess is always eager to help when a need arises and so mindful of what to do to help things run smoothly.
Fun Facts about Tess
Some of my favorite hobbies are yoga, snowboarding and weight lifting. A fun fact about me is that I have 16 nieces and nephews! Another fun fact is that I lived in Thailand for 4 months a couple years ago.
Why do you choose to volunteer with CTC? And, if you could encourage someone else to volunteer at CTC, what would you say?
I chose to volunteer at CTC because of the variety of resources and opportunities they offer to meet a range of children’s needs. I would encourage others to volunteer because programs are run very professionally and efficiently and the staff is extremely welcoming. And you get to help young kids and have the chance to contribute to bettering their lives!
Volunteer Spotlight: Nehal
Nehal joined our team in August as a program support volunteer helping in our community playgroup and fitness center. She is Seattle University Graduate and has been working hard towards becoming a physical therapist. With Nehal’s help and collaboration on group activities like an obstacle course, story time, and other games, these groups become a real blast! The kids are always excited to see her and each week she aims to greet and make every family feel welcomed. She has an undeniable enthusiasm for helping kids (and adults) get active and moving.
Fun Facts about Nehal
My family and I moved to Seattle, WA from Fiji Islands when I was 3 years old. Growing up I played an array of sports, such as swimming, karate, golf, tennis, and dancing. During my free time I love reading, cooking, and exercising.
Why do you choose to volunteer with CTC? And, if you could encourage someone else to volunteer at CTC, what would you say?
I chose to volunteer at CTC because their mission aligned with my values. CTC is an organization that strives to help families from diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and cultures. Volunteering at CTC has been an amazing experience for me. I have learned so much by working with the staff. They are such positive individuals who create a welcoming environment. I am grateful to be a part of such a wonderful team that provides excellent care for the children and their families.
Volunteer Spotlight: Katie
Katie joined our Team in January as a program support volunteer helping in our community playgroup. She also helps prepare fun projects and materials that therapists can use during their sessions and share with families. As a senior at Mt. Tahoma High School, Katie also takes classes at Green River CC and is studying hard to become a doctor. Katie’s experience helping to plan and facilitate activities in summer camps and Sunday school are reflected in her volunteer work at CTC. Her attention to detail and her organization skills have really helped maximize project making. It’s easy to see the passion Katie has for and working with kids!
Fun Facts about Katie
In my family I am the oldest followed by 3 younger brothers, and our puppy, Gracie. As a family we enjoy playing card games and going on vacation, Disneyland being our favorite spot. Some of my hobbies include dancing, spending time with friends, and spending time outdoors. The talents I have and have been able to develop include, compassion, critical thinking, and organization.
Why do you choose to volunteer with CTC? And, if you could encourage someone else to volunteer at CTC, what would you say?
I chose to volunteer with CTC because I enjoy working and being with kids. I also enjoy having the opportunity to help out people in my community. And as I work towards a career in the medical field CTC allowed me to explore different options for careers, through observing their work. CTC is truly a wonderful place to volunteer! Being able to play with kids and create crafts for them allows you to feel like you are making a difference.