Like many of us, Debbie Sostman has struggled with what to do when she sees people sleeping on the street. Before volunteering, she felt disconnected and unsure of how to help.

“I think a lot of us are aware of the work that needs to be done in Baltimore, and we feel this huge weight on our chest,” Debbie reflects. “For me, the way to lift that weight is to further engage.”

Twice a year, volunteers like Debbie help hundreds of clients to fill out surveys about their experiences. These surveys let us know how we’re doing as an agency—and where we need to improve. By surveying, volunteers also directly connect with people with the lived experience of homelessness.

When Debbie offered the first person a survey in our Fallsway lobby, she got more than a simple yes. She had a conversation that left both of them laughing until they cried.

“The client was so funny. And told me she hadn’t had fun like this in so long,” Debbie says. “To have a moment like that with a stranger helped me cross so many perceived boundaries. After a few visits, I’m making friends here. I recognize faces and people know my name.”

Debbie adds, “I wish everyone could have an experience like this. It means a lot to come here and see people face to face, listen to their stories and care for their wellbeing.”

See the results of the survey and Debbie’s volunteer work here.