Volunteering with Simply the Basics - An Interview with long time volunteer, Melissa Guitron
Melissa began her volunteerism as an Ambassador with Simply the Basics and over the years has developed a deeper relationship with our staff and programs. More recently, Melissa has been volunteering and donating her time to support Simply the Basics Hygiene Markets. Our Hygiene Markets provide a myriad of products for Recipients to choose the right health and hygiene items for their hair, skin, and confidence. We know that when people have access to their most basic needs, they are more able to reach their goals and we are so appreciative of Melissa for her continued support in this work!
Hear directly from Melissa on her experience with Simply the Basics and those we support in this brief interview.
Tell us a bit about yourself On paper Melissa is the gym owner of OPEX KURA Fitness. She specializes in coaching pregnant and postpartum clients, as well as educating coaching professionals on how to help clients navigate the physical and mental considerations during these chapter’s of life. But more than that Melissa is a reminder. A reminder to take care of yourself first. A reminder to have a conversation with your true self and invite them to be seen. She is a constant reminder of steadfast, unapologetic, transparent leadership. In her presence we are reminded that doing what you love is the standard while doing something that matters to the world is the dream. But, the thing is, you’ve got to be awake to live that dream – she wakes people up.
1. How did you first learn about Simply the Basics? What about Simply the Basics did you choose to get involved?
I first discovered Simply the Basics in 2009. I was looking for an organization to partner with in providing menstrual products to those living in the low incoming area in my community. A good friend of mine over at Back on My Feet said I needed to meet Meghan from Simply the Basics and he could not have been more right!
Simply the Basics purpose of removing the dehumanization of handouts, and empowering people with the dignity of choice when it comes to receiving donations is something I struggled to find in other organizations I found. It’s not only something they say but can be seen in all the work they do.
2. You recently had the opportunity to volunteer at two different Hygiene Markets to support Recipients who were unhoused as well as Recipients who were newly sheltered. How was your experience? Did you notice any differences or similarities between the experiences?
I was fortunate to have the opportunity to volunteer at two Hygiene Market’s serving different recipients, those unhoused and then who were newly sheltered and housed. Both unique in products that we were able to provide but also in many of the interactions and conversations I had with Recipients. Those living with access to shelter and housing stayed and talked much longer at our booth, they were more engaged in conversation and had a sense of community to those around them. A noticeable difference in confidence and ease from those who were unhoused.
3. What did you learn or take away from the experience?
Choice matters. Whether it is choosing a type of body wash or having access to the type of shampoo that works best for your hair. These choices may seem small but they make a monumental difference making a person feel seen.
4. What do you enjoy about volunteering with Simply the Basics?
The opportunity to have conversations with the recipients is what I enjoy most. The transparency of knowing where all the donations are going and seeing it happen in real time is just an amazing opportunity.
Anything else you would like to share about your experience with Simply the Basics?
Having the time to volunteer can be hard. Simply the Basics provides so many different opportunities to get involved which I really appreciate. Their hygiene drives are a great way to get friends and community together and my community loved doing it. I also really enjoy working at the open house events and getting to meet other who are passionate about the this cause.
Currently, Melissa is continuing her support and hosting a Hygiene Drive at her gym! Engaging her knowledge as a volunteer and her community as a gym owner, she is collecting essential hygiene products that will be distributed at future Simply the Basics Hygiene Markets such as these and we couldn’t be more grateful. For every Hygiene Market, Simply the Basics must raise at least $2,500 for essential hygiene products. You can help by making a tax-deductible contribution or hosting a hygiene drive.