I was excited for the opportunity to support the W Connection and their mission to help widows. When I first decided to volunteer I figured I was going to help out in some small and simple way. However, what was needed at the time was co-chairing the Auction Committee for the Gala. I immediately panicked, thinking I can’t do that. After taking a deep breath, I said “I’m not sure if I can do that, but I can try.” The initial feelings of fear and lack of confidence that many of us widows experience following the death of a spouse, resurfaced, but I realized that it was time for me to do something new, fulfilling, and challenging.  With tremendous encouragement and support along the way from the W Connection team, I DID IT! 

My first task was to enlist a volunteers for the auction to collect items for the fundraiser and to provide assistance before and during the event. In reaching out to other members, it helped me to connect and get to know different individuals in other ways than from our monthly meetings. I made some new friendships and had some laughs and fun working together. I found that there is always someone who is willing to listen and really understand when in need of a listening ear and perhaps some guidance.

I truly do feel that in a certain aspect the W Connection saved my life, from when I sold my house and moved to the city seven months after my husband’s death at the end of 2015. Volunteering for the W Connection has helped me to move forwards by gaining more confidence and trust in myself in this flying-solo journey.

I encourage other members to Become A W Connection GEM! You will get to know other members and you will feel good about yourself by helping others.