We sat down with volunteer, Claudia Cirrincione to find out how she became involved with PHD. Her heartfelt connection is evident and her committment remains strong. Thanks Claudia for all that you do!
How did you find out about PHD?
I became aware about 17 years ago as I was walking into my church which is Holy Family. There was a sign up for PHD and it caught my attention because it emphasized the woman and that PHD was there to help them. Abortion is such a controversial issue and often times the debate is over the life of the baby. However, it is not just about the baby but also about the woman faced with the pregnancy. I was frustrated whenever I heard in the media about women being judged so harshly for their decisions. I thought to myself, when I learned about PHD, “finally someone gets it.” This was the first time I had seen an agency approach it in a way that supports women who were struggling with difficult situations.
When my fourth child was four years old, I met Maureen Cochran a board member for PHD at the time. I was at a place in my life where I could help and I was interested in getting involved. I felt a good connection to PHD’s approach and the mission. Maureen introduced me to Yvonne Gardner and I got the tour. Seeing the building where everything took place made an impact. There are so many things when you’re pregnant that you need help with.
How did you get involved at PHD and what strikes you as important?
I was at a place in my life where I could help; I had enough resources. My thinking was, what about those women who didn’t have that? I connected with Yvonne, watched the video, saw the intake rooms and met various people. I visited the Baby Closet and Resale Boutique and thought it would be a good fit. PHD had an intake coordinator training coming up that summer. In 2006 I started in the Baby Closet then did intake training and moved over to the counseling center. Just this past winter I went to the case manager training and met fabulous volunteers who work so hard. I loved the idea of giving women a hand up not a hand out. I also love the parenting classes and resources we offer to help families.
What has affected you the most in working with these clients?
A lot of the women we see have very complex issues. I’m amazed at how much responsibility we (volunteers) are given to listen to each client story and figure out the best way to facilitate their own self-management abilities; the ability to manage and raise their children. We help put them on the right path to resources. It is a powerful responsibility. But I’ve met some of the most fascinating clients – everyone is unique.
What do you enjoy most about PHD?
I love the staff, the counselors, and, the heart of PHD, which is the volunteers who are the ones that are on the front lines to assist clients. I am also amazed and inspired by the smart group of women in the shifts that I work. I also enjoy being in the moment with a client, helping them where they need an extra boost. I enjoy working with them to help empower them to be the most effective in their own lives with all the challenges they have to face.
Do you think PHD has changed since you began as a volunteer?
Since I began volunteering PHD has moved into the right direction. It started out as pregnancy crisis line and has really blossomed into so much more. PHD is filling a need in the community by offering resources for pregnancy and parenting issues, abstinence issues and educating adolescents about making healthy choices. I appreciate the fact that PHD has expanded beyond just the basics. PHD is growing in the right way and it has come to play such a vital role in the community.
What is your favorite event to attend?
The Fashion Show is a fun event to attend, relax, and have a good time. It’s nice to bring a friend and just get together with my fellow PHD volunteers. It’s my girl’s night out. The volunteer luncheon is always fun, too. I enjoy the fun, laughter and conversation.
