We are excited to introduce our October Volunteer of the Month, Bob G., who volunteers as part of our Refugee Resettlement Support Teams, working directly with refugees to provide support and information.

Staff members shared:

"Bob goes above and beyond to support our refugee clients. He is dedicated to supporting new Americans in such a hands-on and helpful way. Through bus training, thoughtful insight, and thorough preparation, our clients are set up for success to thrive in their jobs. Bob's commitment to assisting JFS clients is unparalleled. He is resourceful, kind, patient, and dedicated to helping us provide holistic, supportive care. He helps people prepare for work by driving them to screenings, fixing up and collecting donations for bicycles, donating helmets, and so much more. He is an excellent mentor and friend to our new Americans, and we simply could not do what we do without him."

"Bob is an incredible man who has made an unbelievable difference in the lives of our refugees. He has built their confidence, given them the means to be independent and explore the US with their bikes, and has made employment far more accessible. He goes above and beyond and is always there to help. He deserves this award, and the whole world."

Read more about Bob's volunteer impact below: 

Q: Tell us about yourself and your background.

BG: I am a retired OB-GYN physician. My wife, Marge, and I have been married 46 years and she is from Boston, and I am from Chicago. We met in Los Angeles and moved to Denver in 1978. All four of my grandparents were from Eastern Europe and immigrated to the United States. I feel a bond for immigrants/refugees as it is part of my heritage.

Q: What volunteer role(s) do you have with JFS, and what roles have you had with JFS?

BG: I have worked as a mobile food pantry volunteer, food delivery driver to the JCC, client assistance with transportation, RTD orientation, student school registration, vocational assistance and bicycle repair for adult transportation.

Q: What motivated you to begin volunteering with JFS, and how long have you been volunteering with JFS?

BG: I have worked with JFS for 2 years and before that I worked with the African Community Center performing similar tasks. I wanted to contribute to people who are new to this country and require cultural orientation and assistance with tasks that we take for granted but are often overwhelming to them.

Q: What's your favorite part about volunteering with JFS, and how has being a JFS volunteer impacted your life?

BG: Interacting with clients and staff. I have developed more patience and empathy.  

Q: Do you have a memorable story about your JFS volunteer experience to share? If so, please share below.

BG: Seeing smiles on client's faces and their happiness.

Q: What would you say to someone considering volunteering with JFS?

BG: It is a rewarding experience that allows us who have so much to give to newcomers who have so little.

Q: Anything else you want to share?

BG: The staff is awesome. My supervisor is 25 and I am 72.

Are you interested in volunteering? Learn more and sign up today.