Each week, Dawn Krueger can be found in United Way's Career Closet, arranging shirts and ties, skirts and tops and shoes into a store-like setting. Dawn's care and commitment to making this a welcome and important part of many people's job search is evident in her volunteerism.
To Dawn, helping in the community started more regularly when she retired six years ago. Seeking to provide structure and social interaction to her days, she was drawn to Faith in Action, where she delivered groceries from The Neighbors' Place to seniors who can't get out of the house easily. Delivering to a blind woman who alphabetized her canned goods with Dawn's help, gave her a chance to learn how others meet challenges. Her love of fashion and outfitting led her to the Career Closet, as well as pricing clothing and running the register at Dime and Dollar. She also helps send out her church newsletter, assists as a Friend of the Library at book sales and works at the AARP Tax Aide appointment desk during tax season.
Seeing people come into the Career Closet with their head down, not really knowing how to choose clothing for an interview or the first weeks on a new job, gives her a welcome challenge. As she gives them outfits to try and they choose some, she sees them stand a little taller and gain confidence to move ahead in life. Many share their stories with her, such as the woman last winter who was living in her car with her dogs. Dawn said it is so rewarding and she loves helping people feel more prepared to take steps to get a job or keep one. She encourages others to volunteer saying, "it feels good to help people and then see the people feel good about themselves."
