Photographs by William Taufic.
Organizations
Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich, Adopt-A-Dog
Inspiration
“When I moved to Stamford, a friend suggested the Boys & Girls Club (BGCG). She said it was so well run,” explains Donna Chamoff, who began volunteering there three years ago.
“I always thought about volunteering. I have my own business so I finally had the time. I initially signed up for Reading Champions [a collaborative between the United Way of Greenwich and BGCG], and I just loved what they did. I met the director and loved her energy. I said I would do anything they needed me to! It’s such a haven for these kids. It sounds trite, but you get so much more back than you put in. You can’t walk out of there without smiling. The Boys & Girls Club values their volunteers like crazy. They are so thankful for anything you do.”
Courage in Action
Donna is now BGCG’s SMART Girls advisor, nurturing tweens’ physical health, positive peer interactions and self-esteem. She also helps kids with reading fluency twice a week through the Reading Champions program. CEO Bobby Walker says, “This woman is always at the ready to help out in the development office, and she helps us with our Mud Run. Donna doesn’t just say that she believes in the potential of these kids, she puts her words into action and gives our members her time, talent, and shares her humor and heart.” Donna also volunteers to help with Adopt-A-Dog’s annual “Puttin’ on the Dog” event.
Hopes & Dreams
“I’m hoping to continue with Reading Champions and with SMART Girls,” says Donna. “I’d also like to implement some workshops for teens.”
Walker says, “We are very fortunate to have this woman choose our club to help make a difference in so many children’s lives. When she’s here, you can feel her vibrant energy and it makes those around her feel more inspired to do more.”