Community Builder Spotlight | Michelle Martz Easley

How did you get involved with N Street Village?

I began volunteering at N Street Village in 2019 as a New Year’s resolution. I wanted to find a consistent volunteer opportunity that matched my values. While there are many impactful organizations in Washington, DC, N Street Village stood out to me. The Village is a place that takes a whole-hearted approach to empower homeless and low-income women to claim their highest quality of life. I believe this specific mission is why unlike my previous resolutions (i.e., lose weight, read more, declutter), volunteering became a lasting commitment.

Can you share your favorite N Street Village memory?

I found joy in volunteering by serving breakfast on Sunday mornings at the Bethany Day Center. Over coffee and cereal, I experienced the clients celebrating their and the group’s successes on their unique journeys to heal and recover. I have numerous memories of these early mornings at the Village. Each moment providing evidence that through the simple work of serving meals, I found a humbling act of love.

What inspired you to become a recurring donor in addition to volunteering your time with N Street Village?

In March 2020, volunteering onsite was suspended so that clients, staff, and volunteers could remain safe during the rising cases of coronavirus. While the pandemic continues, I miss those mornings serving breakfast. In this physical absence, I decided to continue supporting the Village by making monthly donations. I’ve found that even supporting the Village from afar is a rewarding experience. When it is safe to volunteer onsite again, I will be back to serve meals while continuing my recurring donations, knowing that my commitment is beyond a yearly resolution.