I started volunteering at The Good Shepherd Community at the beginning of this year for a communication studies course I am taking at St. Cloud State University. I was hesitant at first because I did not know what to expect and what the outcome from this experience would be like. Throughout this year, my experience has made a great impact. I have met one-on-one with one of the residents every week who resides in the apartments that Good Shepherd offers, as well as spending time in memory lane and taking part in activities and chatting with the residents.

I have been able to make connections with residents, spend time with them, chat, and just be someone that’ll listen. This place is special. The faculty there do everything they can to make Good Shepherd a home and I can see it every time I come in, to volunteer.