Diane Watrous has been a long-time volunteer in the Kitsap community. She recently shared her experiences volunteering at The Coffee Oasis with Pastor Megan at Kitsap House.

With their permission, here is what Diane shared on the Kitsap House blog:

“I’m not sure what I expected when I volunteered for Coffee Oasis. It seems that I possibly had visions of young people asking me for advice and sharing their needs and concerns. I didn’t consider some were weary and suspicious of people they didn’t know.

I settled into sorting clothes donations and toiletries and looked for opportunities to connect with them. The living situation of some of these kids can be very challenging. Living in cars with one parent, many on the street or couch surfing, raising younger siblings and enduring addicted parents that have their own issues.

All this being said, the moment that you connect with a youth and feel like God made it possible for you to be of help, be it little or huge, the joy and blessings are incredible.

When someone needs a ride to a doctor’s appointment or job references or finally sees you as safe to confide in for a crisis or advice is like receiving a warm hug.

I have given rides, helped a young lady bake a birthday cake for her boyfriend, helped teach cooking classes & worked at holiday gatherings & fundraisers.

If you feel a tug at your heart to be a positive aspect in a young person’s life please answer that call and sign up to help. You can make a difference by showing up for as little as 3 hours a week. If you can’t go in person, please add Coffee Oasis to your daily prayers.” – Diane Watrous