Warm Meals and Helping Hands: A Glimpse into Volunteering at Prevention Point

As you may know, one of Mister Rogers’ famous quotes is, “When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’”

I entered Prevention Point’s warming tent, a critical need when temperatures drop below freezing, and felt immense gratitude to be surrounded by so many helpers.

I saw people of all ages and backgrounds, some of whom didn’t know each other, working in lock step to prepare the warming tent for the community by dropping off donations, getting ready to serve dinner and organizing the warming center. Prevention Point staff and volunteers from Socks for the Streets, the Everywhere Project, Chestnut Hill Rotary Project, Philly Unknown Project and AIM – Angels in Motion, quickly introduced themselves to each other and came together to meet basic needs, provide connection, and alleviate the suffering of those struggling with drug addiction and poverty, even if it be just for that night. Two Prevention Point clients stepped in to hand out clothing, which I learned later is common to see on volunteer nights.

Meredith setting up the dinner station

After we finished serving food, I began helping the team distributing winter clothing. My colleagues and I followed the guidance of those who volunteer at Prevention Point regularly. They knew the process intimately and had a routine to serve a large group of people with great care. Together, we helped the clients find the right size as well as the color and style they liked best. Many of the clients wanted to chat for a few minutes while shopping for their coat. In the moment, I felt struck by their positive energy and gratefulness. Despite their many hardships, they were able to be present and find joy in the moment. These short conversations about what type of coat they wanted reminded me of the importance of connection. When walking down the street, it is easy to turn a blind eye to those who are struggling with addiction and homelessness. Yet, engaging those who are so often ignored in conversation is a small act of kindness that can go a long way. Our conversations at the coat station were short, but I hope that they felt seen and understood in that moment.

Meredith handing out winter coats to Prevention Point clients

I left Prevention Point feeling a strong sense of purpose for the work we do at Braeburn and incredibly grateful to work alongside a community of devoted volunteers, true helping superheroes. They are extremely invested in this community and repeatedly show up, no matter the weather or time of day. I am glad that my colleagues and I could assist the Prevention Point staff and volunteers who provided warmth to over 150 people on a frigid winter night. Transforming the management of OUD will take a collective effort, and I am so proud of all those donating their time and resources to help.

Meredith interacting with another volunteer

This volunteer experience coupled with my intention to uplift those who are struggling and lead with kindness, will fuel me through 2024. Even the short conversations or a quick smile can brighten spirits and leave a lasting imprint on someone’s journey. I will strive to spread positivity and do a small fraction of the impactful work that the regular volunteers do this year.

There are a multitude of ways to give back to the community, and I hope that you’re able to find a cause you care about and inspires you to leave a space better than when you found it. We can all be helpers.