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A Warm Welcome at United Way Asheville Buncombe County

Our world can feel fractured and chaotic at times and with so much uncertainty, creating spaces where people feel safe, heard, and valued has never been more critical. At United Way Asheville Buncombe County (UWABC), the front desk isn’t just a place to check in— it's a place where warmth and kindness set the tone for every visitor who walks through the doors. Cindy, our Office Manager, greets everyone with a smile and embodies this spirit of welcome and connection.

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Cindy works at front desk

 

“The most important part about being the front desk at UWABC is to be patient with people because they come in all sorts of moods. People want to tell their story and be heard with compassion. It’s also very important to understand what resources are available.” Cindy shares.

She knows that people need her special skills—being patient, offering support, and creating a welcoming space.

“People want to be heard and know that the other person is really listening,” Cindy says. Her attentiveness, patience, and deep knowledge of UWABC’s work make her an essential part of the team. Whether it’s answering questions, offering a kind word, or connecting people with the right staff member, Cindy helps make UWABC a place where everyone belongs.

Today, we've got two stories that showcase Cindy's connection to our community. Maybe you will be next!

A Meaningful Connection: Cindy and Hudson

Cindy’s commitment to inclusivity and support extends to every volunteer who walks through the door. In early January, Cindy had the pleasure of meeting Hudson O'Connell and his mother, Mrs. O’Connell. Hudson, who has been diagnosed with high-functioning autism (HFA), is the second individual with autism to sign up to volunteer with UWABC through Hands On. Cindy had no prior knowledge of Hudson’s condition until he arrived, but she quickly formed a meaningful bond with him and his mother.

“Mrs. O’Connell pulled me aside and asked if I was comfortable with her leaving Hudson alone for his shift,” Cindy recalls. “I responded, ‘Of course, I should be fine as long as he listens and doesn’t wander off.’ She reassured me that he wouldn’t run off but might come to me a hundred times if he didn’t understand something. She added, ‘He is very fond of you and likes coming here.’”

Hudson worked diligently, starting with cleaning before moving on to help fill community giveaway bags. Even as he worked upstairs with the Center for Participatory Change, he frequently checked back in with Cindy, worried about leaving her alone at the front desk. “I assured him I was fine and could not leave my post,” Cindy says with a smile.

“I am grateful to say we offer a safe and comfortable environment where all our volunteers can thrive. A true honor,” Cindy reflects.

The Mail Carrier Who Brightens Cindy's Day

It’s not just staff and volunteers who feel the warmth of UWABC—it’s everyone who steps through the doors, including our mail carrier. Their connection is a perfect example of how Cindy fosters relationships in every interaction.

Maybe it was her childhood memories of her father, who worked in the postal service, but when our mail carrier would occasionally arrive, looking hot and tired, Cindy would offer him water, coffee, or a soda. As their connection grew, she showed him the growing gratitude wall full of cards and notes from across the country. Each note contains a word of encouragement and best wishes for our community after Helene. She wanted him to see the same messages he had delivered to us earlier.

Cindy made sure he had his own special message. A batch of cookies and a birthday card signed by our team were a small way to ensure he felt appreciated, too. Now, on the rare days Cindy isn’t at the front desk, the mail carrier asks about her, making sure she’s doing well.

Be a Part of the Culture

Cindy reminds us of the power of simple kindness. Creating a welcoming culture doesn’t take grand gestures; it takes patience, understanding, and a willingness to listen.

If you’re looking for a place where you will be greeted with kindness, where your story will be heard, and where you can find ways to give back, come on in. 

 
Want to volunteer your time? Use Hands On today!
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Categories
Social Responsibility
Volunteer