Volunteer Spotlight: Toniann Chafin
Meet Toniann Chafin, a dedicated Casa Youth Shelter volunteer for the past four years and the new Assistant Volunteer Coordinator for our Volunteer Corps Program.
Toniann, a fourth generation Southern California native who owns a business specializing in Logistics, assists Volunteer Corps Coordinator Dave Basok in recruiting and training potential Casa Youth Shelter volunteers, and making sure current volunteers feel fulfilled in their roles. Read on to learn more about what brought Toniann to Casa Youth Shelter and her thoughts on what volunteers bring to the organization.
You’ve been with us for four years! How did you first get connected with Casa Youth Shelter?
I was trying to donate furniture and Casa Youth Shelter was the only organization coming up in my search engine. After a few more online searches that featured Casa Youth Shelter in the top results, I figured the universe was trying to send me a message. I called the shelter, and the rest is history. The universe was right!
What advice or tips would you give to a prospective Casa Youth Shelter volunteer?
I always tell our potential volunteers that they are here to primarily assist the shelter staff, but that if they see an unmet need, or have an idea for something they’d really like to do, to let us know. One thing I always mention is that you may think that you are here to help Casa Youth Shelter – and you will – but that the experience will give back to you more that you could ever imagine. Personally speaking, volunteering here is the best way to start my week.
What are some of your goals for the Volunteer Corps?
It’s important to me that volunteers feel accomplished and refreshed after every shift they work. We’d also like to reward long-term volunteers, so Dave and I are working on a process for that.
What are three words that describe you?
Caring, resourceful, and accepting.
If you could share a meal with anyone, alive or dead, who would it be?
Princess Diana.
Finally, what do you think are your best skills that you bring to your work with Casa Youth Shelter?
I have lots of ideas – good and bad – but I share them all!
Looking for ways to use your unique skills to give back to the local community? There are so many ways you can help – and we can show you how! We are always looking for enthusiastic and reliable volunteers to join our team. Learn more about our Volunteer Corps here.
