Volunteer Spotlight: Phyllis Freeman

Phyllis is a retired social worker who finds purpose and joy in volunteering, alongside a life enriched by family and hobbies. With three children and seven grandchildren living in Minnesota, life is wonderfully full. When not spending time with family, Phyllis enjoys staying active with pickleball, walking, and playing bridge. Volunteer work, however, holds a special place in their heart, described as a way to feel "worthy of my spot on the earth" while making a meaningful impact on others.

For Phyllis, volunteering is deeply personal and fulfilling. While helping others is the focus, they admit it’s also incredibly rewarding on a personal level. “I like the feeling it gives me, and I wouldn’t get that feeling if it wasn’t a win for the person I’m helping. This is my little spot to make a difference in a world with so much sadness.”

One experience that stands out as especially profound involved driving a hospice patient to the hospital to have her feeding tube reinserted. The journey became a moving moment of connection and reflection. “It was so profound for her to share her story with me. It was a privilege to be with her.”

Driving others to appointments is the primary way Phyllis contributes, and it’s also the most rewarding aspect of their work. Knowing that such a simple act can have a profound impact brings immense satisfaction. "It’s sad that some people have to rely on volunteers for something so basic, but it’s an important service, and I’m grateful to help."

With a background in social work, Phyllis already understands the challenges people face. However, her time giving back has reinforced how crucial it is to be kind, thoughtful, and to help others. "If more people volunteered, they’d understand the warm, good feeling it brings. It’s a puzzle why we don’t all do it.”

This inspiring story reminds us of the transformative power of giving back and the joy found in making a difference. Thank you Phyllis!