Q&A with Iona Volunteer Tracy Kroloff

We at Iona are thankful for all of the wonderful volunteers who make an impact on our organization each and every day. In the spirit of National Volunteer Week, we invited Iona volunteer Tracy Kroloff, who volunteers in the Wellness & Arts Center, to share how she has given back to the Iona community.

Q. When did you first start volunteering with Iona?

I started volunteering with Iona with my kids, Max and Nina, after Max came to visit with his first grade class at the National Presbyterian School. That was in the spring of 2013. I have volunteered with them since and have also started coming in on my own.

Q. How did you hear about us?

I used to live in the neighborhood, my kids go to school nearby, and we still live nearby.

Q. Why did you decide to give your time to Iona?

The people at Iona are wonderful — all of the staff and the participants and the families involved. I also think it is important to spend time with others to appreciate different perspectives and situations. That aspect has been very helpful for my children.

Q. What have your experiences been like volunteering with Iona? Do you have any favorite stories or memories to share?

When we visit, we often sit and chat, or color, or put a puzzle together. I have started reading stories as well. In the summer, my kids and I lead an exercise group in the morning often followed by dancing to the song YMCA. Sometimes the kids get to visit with one of the participant’s dogs, which they very much love. It is always enjoyable. I wasn’t there when my son Max recently visited with his fifth grade student council peers. I heard that the participants cheered on his arrival. That is my favorite story.

Q. Why is volunteering important to you/your family?

As I mentioned, I think it is extremely valuable to take the time to step outside of one’s own experiences and to gain some perspective of the experiences of others. We also always feel so happy and loved and full of love when we leave Iona. It is an incredibly valuable time for us.

Q. Why should others volunteer for Iona?

For all those reasons I just mentioned!

If you are interested in volunteering at Iona, read more here and then contact our volunteer coordinator at volunteer@iona.org.

Are you an Iona volunteer? We’d love to hear from you! Share your story in the comments.