“Volunteering is humbling. You pick up on little things. It is a really great experience and is so rewarding. If you are thinking about volunteering at Systems, you should 100% do it!”
Chloe Parkes has been a Systems Home and Community volunteer for over a year now and was paired with Lindsey Warner, a person served in our supported living division since 1994. From the start, they had a lot in common. They both like to explore their community and stay active. Lindsey is an avid roller bladder and was excited when she found out Chloe liked to skate as well. They decided to skate the first time they got together and that sealed their friendship.
Chloe moved to the area with her husband, Joe Steinbronn, a few years ago. Prior to this, she had been a Direct Support Professional at another agency and was missing the experience of connecting with someone living with a disability. She found out about SUI after Joe worked here as a Coordinator for two years. “I have learned a lot from Systems as an organization. You have such an amazing approach to serving people with disabilities. It is such an important experience to learn how to approach people with disabilities.”
your life that is so genuine is hard to come by, and I think a lot of times adults with disabilities have a really good ability to read people and give you advice that seems like a duh moment. You really get to just be yourself. We have a great time together,” Chloe stated.
When asked what she liked best about volunteering, she stated that volunteering creates the opportunity to experience your community to the fullest. She is newer to Iowa City and Lindsey lives with three other housemates, so is not always able to get out as much as she likes. Volunteering allows her to make a difference in someone’s life while getting to explore community events. “Fringe benefit, you get out there and do stuff that you typically wouldn’t do.”
Lindsey also really enjoys her time with Chloe. When asked what she likes to do the most, she stated, “I like to go out to eat and do fun things, like doing crafts or going for walks. I like Chloe, she is really nice.”
“Having someone in
We really appreciate what our volunteers do to help the people we serve to live their best lives. From making a connection to volunteering at an event, all are vital. To learn more about ways to work with Systems Unlimited, visit our ‘How to Help’ page. All levels of experience are welcome. For questions, please contact marketing@sui.org.
