My name is David Gordon, and I've been a volunteer with My Sister's Place for about four years. My contribution has mostly been helping families who are moving out of the shelter and into their own apartments, obtain furniture and other essential household items.
Prior to working with MSP, I was involved in furnishing apartments for refugees. At the same time, I was familiar with the important mission of MSP, and I came to realize that families living in the MSP shelter are effectively refugees from domestic violence situations. Much like international refugees, the families housed at MSP often had to leave their furniture and household items behind to flee violence. When transitioning from the shelter to their own homes, these families needed basic furniture, kitchen supplies, and other items.
Like many cities, Washington, DC has many people with the willingness and the resources to help those in need. Many people are willing to donate good quality furniture. I helped MSP "get into the business" of locating donations, furnishing apartments, and all the related logistics. Now MSP has it's own excellent team doing this work, its own storage space, and truck rental account. When asked, I always try to help out. This is very rewarding volunteer work, as it can be an exciting time for the families who are finally obtaining their own apartments. I encourage others to get involved.
To get involved, please email acavanaugh@mysistersplacedc.org.
