WERS, Listeners "Play" it Forward at Rosie’s Place

Back in December, WERS 88.9 FM committed to donate one hour of volunteer work for every $500 raised at the station's Community Service Fundraiser. Last month, WERS staff, students, and devoted listeners came together to help out at Rosie’s Place, America’s first shelter for poor and homeless women.

Ashley Peterson handles the membership department at WERS, and the fajita department at Rosie’s Place.

“We’re playing this donation forward on behalf of our listeners — and it feels great,” Peterson said. “We get to make a positive difference in a way that builds our own community while building the community that we live in.” Ashley volunteered every day the week of February 19-23.

WERS Promotions Director Erin-Jean Hussey worked the lunch shift on February 19, when nearly 100 women and children were served.

“It’s been a really great turnout this year,” Hussey said. “February is usually a really hard time to get people to volunteer, whether it be at Rosie’s Place or anywhere, and it’s also the time that they need it the most, so I think it’s really great that we do this at this time of year.”

Hussey sliced the French bread that complimented a delicious fish soup, served by long-time WERS listener Dave Amentola. He paid close attention to the ratio of broth to stock that each guest preferred.

“Rosie’s Place has a special place in my heart, and I imagine quite a few people’s hearts,” Amentola said. “So to me, the little that I can do, volunteering once in a while, is kind of important. I try to do it as often as I can.”

This is Amentola's fourth shift at Rosie’s Place. “So, for those folks that say they don’t have the money to give to a charity, then don’t. Come in and volunteer. Find an afternoon, or a day when you can come in. It’s easy to sign up, and the folks who are permanently working here are awesome. It's all very satisfying.”

Reposted from WERS.org.