Sonja - HOPE Volunteer

About Sonja:
Sonja went to school in Brookfield, CT, and attended Fones School of Dental Hygiene in Bridgeport, CT. She enjoyed her career as a Dental Hygienist for 35 years and is now retired. Sonja is a dedicated HOPE Chest volunteer and loves to share stories and laugh with the staff and other volunteers.

What have you learned while volunteering?
Volunteering has opened my eyes to domestic violence and how “ protected” it can be behind closed doors. It made me realize that I don’t know anyone’s story before meeting them.

What advice would you give to a future volunteer?
Just come and see how much joy you will receive, knowing the good HOPE is continuously doing. It fills my heart and I think it will fill yours, too.

Tell us about your most memorable accomplishment with this organization.
About 4 years ago, a survivor came into HOPE Chest with a voucher to shop free of charge and I was helping at the register. She was in her 60’s and said she didn’t know how to pick out clothes to wear. I helped pick out some tops and bottoms for her and she didn’t feel she could wear something “ so nice”. I showed her in the mirror how pretty she looked and she cried. Touching just one life feels like a great accomplishment.

What motivates you to work with this organization?
I am motivated by how much good HOPE brings to the community.

Describe yourself using only film titles.
“Footloose”, because I love to dance. “Beaches”, because I love the water.

Is there something that excites you so much it keeps you awake the night before?
Traveling is always exciting!

Describe the most incredible view you’ve ever seen.
Skiing in the Alps.

What’s your pizza order?
Either Veggies or BBQ Chicken.

We truly appreciate all of your hard work and dedication to our mission!