04/24/2026
As Volunteer Appreciation Week wraps up, we would like to highlight our volunteers in our Family Respite Program who have given numerous hours over the past year. Thank you for showing up and making a difference in the lives of those we serve!
WE APPRECIATE YOU!
https://www.littlefriendsinc.org/children/respite-family-services/
Sami Jones
200 hrs since April 2025
Sami is one of our most consistent and dedicated volunteers! She has formed strong bonds with participants and staff alike and has worked hard to build great relationships with all of the children. She is always excited to come to respite and has a positive attitude! She works well with all of the children we serve. Sami appreciates and enjoys the individuality of our participants and is always enthusiastic about learning how best to support each child.
Lily Boldt
190 hrs since April 2025
Lily has an amazing foundation of understanding and knowledge regarding our participants. She is thoughtful in each of her interactions, demonstrating respect and kindness. She is incredibly caring, patient, and understanding with our participants. She works hard to engage participants in activities, encourage them to try new things, and form bonds with each individual. Lily is always willing to go the extra mile, jump in to help wherever needed, and be a mentor to others.
Sophie Lopez
125 hrs since April 2025
Sophie is kind, caring, and gentle with the children. She is always patient and always willing to help wherever needed. Sophie is amazing with anyone she works with. She is eager to help wherever and whenever it is necessary. Sophie lends a hand in several different ways, including helping lead crafts when staff need extra support and always staying late to assist with clean up.
Alyssa Raschke
75 hrs since April 2025
Alyssa is wonderful! She is kind, patient, and determined. She has a great relationship with all of the children and has been a wonderful addition to our volunteer team. She does not shy away from a challenge and is always willing to learn and grow. She is a calm and steady presence for the children, always showing up with a smile.
Juliet Parrott
75 hrs since April 2025
Juliet is hard-working, patient, and kind. She has a strong ability to work with children with varying communication and sensory needs, learn their strengths, and have a great time with them! Juliet has a wonderful passion for the work that she does and is a natural leader.
Tessa Harris
65 hrs since April 2025
Tessa has a wonderful attitude and is always excited to work with the kids! She demonstrates a strong level of engagement and helps keep them happy and entertained. Tessa is enthusiastic and passionate.
Rachel Day
60 hrs since April 2025
Rachel always brings energy and enthusiasm to her interactions with the children she works with. She enjoys sharing her insights and is open to learning opportunities! She helps wherever we need her and enjoys connecting with and getting to know each child.
Lauren Jennings
60 hrs since April 2025
Lauren is enthusiastic about our respite program and has a strong passion for working with children with disabilities. She is reliable and a strong communicator. She has a wonderful bond with the children, keeps them engaged, and is flexible. Lauren is a hard worker, is excited to learn and grow, and is very respectful.
Hailey Veome
60 hrs since April 2025
Hailey is a long-term volunteer who knows all of the children well. She has a positive and caring attitude. She works well with all of the children we serve. She is extremely flexible, engaging, calm, and kind.
Tommy Kacedan
55 hrs since April 2025
Tommy is a great role model for other volunteers. He is kind, caring, and helpful. He has a great attitude and comes in with positive energy each night. Tommy is always smiling and engaging with the children he works with, and is willing to help out wherever needed.
