What is the Guild all about?
It’s a group of volunteers whose sole purpose is to be “goodwill ambassadors” for D.A. Blodgett for Children. Not only do Guild members spread positive news about the Agency to their family, friends, church congregation, neighborhood and anyone they meet, they offer hands-on assistance to Agency staff
and clients when needed.

When did it start?
The new Marilyn J. Olson Guild began in May 2005. We held our first recruitment tea to introduce interested persons to the volunteer opportunities at the Agency, but the history of Guild membership at D.A. Blodgett for Children goes back
at least 60 years.

Who are the members?
Some are retirees who have worked all their lives and now want to be able to “give” to others. Older working women who want an opportunity to help others now that their children are grown and young women with children who need a night away from their personal responsibilities have joined our Guild. Couples who are foster parents through our Agency or have adopted children through us participate, too. Men with a special talent may volunteer to provide that service to the Agency.

When do you meet?
Our regular meetings are the second Tuesday of each month from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. here at the Agency. Depending on the activities planned, there may be a few months in the summer when we do not have a regular meeting, but may still have special events planned.

Are there group activities?
Yes. The Guild is responsible for planning an annual “Special Event” to raise funds and build awareness for the Agency, drawing attention to our many programs and services that help
children in need.

What kind of volunteer help do Guild members provide?
We have a variety of opportunities for the Guild’s assistance. From working in our Foster Care clothing room, to filing, to making copies and training packets for either Foster Care, Adoption, Big Brothers Big Sister Departments or informational packets for our Medical Clinic. They enjoy decorating the facilities and meeting rooms, assist with events within the community and help with fundraising. Gardening opportunities exist on our beautiful grounds and in our three Rain Gardens. They assist with gift coordination for children during the Holidays, and help our nurse in our medical clinic. Hosting lunch and dinner events is also an opportunity for volunteers.The possibilities grow with the skills
and interest areas of our volunteers.

How many hours would I need
to commit?
Whatever your time schedule allows, some volunteer during the day, some during evening events.

Can I work at home or from the DAB office?
At times, there will be projects that can be worked from the guild member’s home, such as phone calls, typing, or craft projects. Projects such as copying, preparing information and training packets for the Agency would require the volunteer to work from the DAB offices.

Will I be able to work with children?
Most of the volunteer opportunities do not put volunteers in situations where they are directly responsible for contact with the children we serve. There may be a few times when children may be involved such as summer picnics,
Christmas parties, or through our
Medical Clinic.

Will I be able to meet other
volunteers?
Yes, that’s what it’s really all about.
We are creating a positive “working”
environment within the Guild to not only help the Agency, but to help each other with the various projects that come up.

Is there training or screening?
There is no training other than meeting with the department coordinator to discuss what the project is and how to accomplish it. As for screening, each Guild member needs to sign a confidentiality statement and have a criminal history background check, which the Agency will assist with obtaining.

What happens if I need to take a break or leave for the winter?
You will be missed by the other Guild members! We understand that we all have times in our lives when we need to take a vacation, are ill, or have events in our lives which require us to be away. The Guild is very understanding and will ask you to let us know when you would be available again.

Is this something I can do with my husband, friend or grandchild?
By all means, YES! There will be projects that we will need men involved with, there will be projects that your children or grandchildren will be able
to help with. And, at all times you are welcome to recruit your friends to become members of the Guild.

For more information on the Guild, please call the Agency at (616) 451-2021 and ask to speak with someone about joining.