Volunteer Spotlight: Eli Bowman

safEAdm1in • May 30, 2024

As we wrap up a beautiful month of warm weather and exciting events, we wanted to take a moment and share a testimony from one of the people that makes SafeHaven so special. Our volunteers not only contribute a meaningful presence to our residents, they find enjoyment and meaning for themselves too. 

Volunteering at SafeHaven isn’t just about giving back, it’s about understanding what makes life worth living and why people who are different from us deserve to enjoy life too. It’s a chance to connect with others and experience the joy of being a person. But don’t take our word for it, hear it from one of our favorite volunteers, eleven year old Eli Bowman:

“The Jimmy Simpson Foundation Safehaven is one of my favorite places to visit. I like Safehaven because of the residents. They are really nice! They are always happy when they get to help and are very funny. My cub scout den has visited twice and both times was so fun. The first visit I was unsure and scared about going, but once I met Kim, Larry and Brad, I thought it was really cool. We made wooden planes and birdhouses. Kim was happy when she used the hammer and didn’t miss the nail one time. I had a lot of fun watching and helping Kim use the screwdriver, too. I was laughing because of how excited she was. The next visit, I made Kim an Elvis stamp picture to hang in her room. Brad arm wrestled us, showed us his favorite things on his Ipad, and made me laugh a lot. Larry told us about the planes. The Safehaven residents have opened my eyes to see people in a different way. Despite the challenges the residents face, they smile and are kind. They have inspired me to want to hang out with them more so they can have fun and I can, too. I’ve even thought about getting a job there one day. I always want to go back to see my friends as much as I can!”

If you are interested in volunteering at SafeHaven, we would love to have you! To learn more, reach out to Jessica Malone at:  jmalone@safehavenjsf.org   . 

A boy scout and resident Kim are at a table building a birdhouse.
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