From Organizer to Volunteer: Felice on the Power of Giving Back

Overcome Challenges and Motivate Through Actions

Felice is more than an author—she’s also a professional organizer. Through her volunteer work with the Virtual Senior Center, Felice has transformed an everyday skill into a tool for helping the members at the VSC.

Her volunteer work didn’t start overnight. Felice initially knew Selfhelp first and was a part of Next Gen (Young Professionals group). Then, she found the VSC program and thought it was meaningful.

Felice has been leading the online classes with her professional expertise and passion for helping others. Even though teaching virtually offered a unique set of challenges, Felice quickly adapted to provide the members with tips to organize their spaces.

She dives straight into problem-solving and invites them to take hands-on steps in real-time. In this way, the class gets motivated to declutter.

"It’s not easy for them,” she reflects. “For me, it’s second nature, but for many of them, this is a huge challenge, and I get so happy knowing they’re proud of those accomplishments.”

The Power of Giving Back

While teaching decluttering and organizing is rewarding for Felice, the relationships she’s formed with the members have had a greater impact. "After my volunteer hours, I feel like I’ve just hung out with my grandparents and their friends,” she says with a laugh.

The members also share positive feedback that often leaves Felice in tears. “I love it when they tell me they enjoyed my class or that they got something out of it,” she shares. “Sometimes they’ll come back weeks later and say, ‘I thought about what you told me, and I finally tackled that pile of clutter!’ That’s what makes this work so meaningful.”

Felice often feels lucky to volunteer here and loves to be helpful. “I feel lucky to be part of a program like this, where people truly care about our seniors,” she says. “We’re all going to get older if we’re lucky, and these are people who deserve to be cared for with respect and attention. Being able to give that to someone is a gift.”

Eager to hear the complete story? Tune into the full episode on YouTube!

If Felice’s story inspires you, consider joining our community as a volunteer! There’s a place for you at the Virtual Senior Center. ☺ Click here to apply.