The volunteers at the House of Rachel are an important a vital part of the Program. House of Rachel volunteers provide a presence in the House several evenings each month. Seven women participate in the volunteer component of the House. Volunteers are counted on to be at the House in the evening, they share the evening meal and other activities with the residents. The volunteer's are kind and caring women who give generously of their time and provide a valuable service to the House.

Gail's statement: "As to why I volunteer at the House—when I started volunteering it was a way to 'pay back"—to maybe make someone's life a little easier. Since being at the House, I no longer consider myself a volunteer. These women have become a big part of my life. I have benefited so much from our relationships. They have made me a better person."

When asked what drew her to the House of Rachel, and what experiences in her life made her want to contribute her time as a volunteer for the House of Rachel, Jean replied: "The experience of older women is a particular passion of mine. I have been active in the Older Women's League for over 20 years. Through a presentation at one of our OWL Board meetings I found out that the House of Rachel was seeking volunteers to spend a couple hours at the House in the evenings. Soon after I visited the House, had dinner with the women, and I was very moved by how they received me. I was the stranger and they welcomed me! I experienced the House as a place where women feel safe and are given opportunities. That mission touches my heart. The House of Rachel is a gift which Catholic Charities is giving to our community."

"I volunteer at the House of Rachel because I love the women. They have invited me to come and enter into their poverty. The women bring out my tenderness and compassion as I recognize my own poverty and homelessness. They bless me when I see their dignity and they tell me their dreams. I am filled with the desire to hold their dreams close to my heart. I am humbled by their courage. The women are my teachers and call me to life."