Meet our Volunteers: Cheryl

Volunteers are the backbone of our organization. They bring countless hours, boundless enthusiasm, and unwavering commitment to the table, and we could not do what we do without them. Today, we pay tribute to Cheryl Dunn, who embodies the spirit of selflessness, turning her passion into action and making a profound impact on the families we serve.

When Cheryl retired in 2020 after working as a Social Worker and Patient Advocate at Parkview Hospital for 33 years, she knew she needed to keep busy. She took up pickleball with her husband and took a class to become a CASA volunteer. She also joined a group of women at Associated Churches called Journey Beside Mothers that mentors young moms in ministry.

“My eldest daughter, Alicia, lives in Asheville, North Carolina, and she, along with another woman, run the Babies Need Bottoms Diaper Bank,” Cheryl said. “I am so proud of the love and commitment they put in to improving the availability and quality of life for those in need. I learned to wrap diapers in Asheville and started my search for the opportunity to wrap here in my own community.”

Not only did Cheryl step up to volunteer to wrap diapers or stuff folders and bags for special events, but she brought a group of friends along with her. “We are eager to help with whatever the staff have waiting for us,” she said. “Anything we can help with will free up some of the time for the staff to concentrate on the families and programs.”

Cheryl, her friends, and volunteers like her who help us wrap diapers are helping us provide thousands of diapers to families in need each year through our Mobile Diaper Pantry, which we launched in 2022. Our diaper pantry travels to the most underserved neighborhoods to provide diapers without questions. Every family receives 50 diapers a month.

So what is her “why” for volunteering? “It’s all about improving the lives of others, whether it is a kind word, or a smile, words of encouragement, kindness, acceptance, accessibility, or diapers.” 

Cheryl said her mom was a strong and caring woman who raised 4 kids on her own. They were fortunate to have the opportunity to use various social service assistance to live in a safe and loving environment. “My mom taught us values and morals and to give back to others in need with a kind heart and a smile,” she said.

Join us in expressing gratitude to those who choose to invest their time and energy in the betterment of others.