Sheila Hayes
After a 35-year career with the federal government, Sheila Hayes was looking for new ways to fill her time in retirement. She has served at a few different local nonprofits over the last decade, but one volunteer role truly captured her heart.
“Out of all the volunteer jobs I’ve tried, being a classroom assistant at The Children’s Place has been the most rewarding,” Sheila told us. “Every Friday, I look forward to spending the first part of my day with ‘the babies’ in the Blue Butterflies classroom and I walk out feeling like I have received so much more than I have given.”
Sheila has served as a classroom volunteer in our Day Treatment program since 2017 and has been a loyal volunteer ever since. She’s currently volunteering in our Blue Butterflies classroom, which is the youngest classroom in our Day Treatment program for children ages two and under. Sheila has been such a vital part of the classroom, offering a friendly face for the little ones and being open to helping with any task the teachers need.
“Sheila is the volunteer extraordinaire!” said Lovie Hollins, Day Treatment Coordinator. “She shows up every week consistently with a positive attitude and helpful spirit. The kids are drawn to her—they are always bringing her books to read or toys to play with in her lap. The teachers also love when she is here; Sheila is constantly looking for opportunities to help. She does it all—cleaning, booger wiping, toy disinfecting—she’s amazing!”
Sheila has told us that she doesn’t have children of her own but has always enjoyed working with children and making a difference for the youngest kids at The Children’s Place.
“The Children’s Place’s mission to support children who have experienced trauma drew me in,” Sheila said. “I was fortunate to grow up in a loving, safe environment and I wanted to help those who have been less fortunate. From my first day in the classroom at The Children’s Place I have been so impressed by the heart and dedication of the teachers and staff. And, of course, I fell in love with the children.”
Sheila will be recognized at the Gratitude Bruncheon on Wednesday, August 30. Learn more about our other honorees who will be celebrated at the Gratitude Bruncheon here.
