Keeping our valued volunteers informed
GM’s Corner
The first robins have been spotted, the tundra swans have swung through, and we have had temperatures in the double digits. Spring is definitely in the air! As a staff, we collectively hope that you’re having a great month, and are looking forward to spring as much as we are! A couple of reminders for all of us as we head into the new season:
1. While most of you will have already met her, I’m happy to say that Julie Hause has joined us on staff and is settling into her role as our Volunteer Engagement Manager. Julie has a real passion for you as volunteers and supporting you in any way she can. If you haven’t already met her, say hello!
2. Doors open for volunteers at 8:55 a.m. in the retail building and 9:00 a.m. in the processing building. For the processing side, we ask that you respect this timing – there is construction, etc., going on and we need the time to ensure that we have enough staff in the building to keep you safe!
3. We encourage you not to store or leave things in the kitchen at 41. You should have received an email earlier this month about this. Going forward, we will clear the space at the end of each day or night (depending on closing time), removing anything left on the tables or in the area. (We will not throw out your coats!) We have adjusted the cleaning expectations with the staff and want to ensure that we are all doing our part to keep the new space as clean, fresh and inviting as possible going forward.
With the housekeeping done, I want to once again say thank you for everything that you do. Your efforts and time are crucial to allowing MCC to do the work that touches so many people’s lives. You truly make a difference!
Mark Patfield General Manager MCC New Hamburg Thrift Centre
Spring Garden Safety Tips for Seniors
Spring is a wonderful time to get back into the garden. Warmer weather, blooming flowers, and fresh air make gardening both enjoyable and beneficial for physical and mental health. However, it’s important for seniors to take a few extra precautions to stay safe while working outdoors.
Before heading into the garden, take a few minutes to warm up your body. Gentle stretches for the back, shoulders, and legs can help prevent muscle strain. Gardening often involves bending, lifting, and reaching, so preparing your body first can reduce the risk of injury.
Use the right tools to make gardening easier and safer. Lightweight tools with long handles can reduce the need to bend or kneel. Raised garden beds or container gardens are also excellent options, as they bring plants closer to a comfortable working height.
Pace yourself while gardening. It can be tempting to tackle many tasks at once, but over-exertion can lead to fatigue or strain. Work for short periods—about 20 to 30 minutes—and take breaks in between. Staying hydrated is also important, even on cooler spring days.
Be mindful of lifting techniques when moving soil bags, pots, or garden supplies. Bend at your knees, keep your back straight, and hold objects close to your body. If an item feels too heavy, ask for help or divide the load into smaller portions.
Finally, dress for safety. Wear gloves to protect your hands, sturdy shoes to prevent slips, and a hat and sunscreen to guard against sun exposure.
Gardening should be relaxing and rewarding. By taking simple precautions, seniors can safely enjoy the beauty and benefits of springtime in the garden.
From New Hamburg to Cambodia
You may not recognize her as she last volunteered with us in 2021, but Melanie was excited that after travelling half a world away, she got to meet with Quinn in a Sunday morning church service in Phnom Penh, Cambodia! Our New Hamburg Thrift volunteers are helping all around the world! (Melanie Shantz and Quinn van der Schans)
Current Volunteer Needs
We’re in urgent need of volunteers to receive items on Saturdays. If you’d like to pick up an extra shift, or you know someone who does, we’d be very grateful for the extra help. In addition, if you’re someone who’s sad that Christmas is behind us, you may be in luck. We’re looking for volunteers to sort and price in our Christmas department. You can be in the Christmas spirit all through the year. Please reach out to Julie: juliehause@mcco.ca. Thank you for your consideration!
Welcome Julie, our new Volunteer Engagement Manager
Hi, I’m Julie Hause, the new Volunteer Engagement Manager at the MCC New Hamburg Thrift Centre. I was born and raised in Kitchener and now live in New Hamburg with my adult son. I’m a big sports fan and enjoy spending time helping out friends and family whenever I can.
I’ve had the pleasure of working with volunteers in several previous roles, including Strong Start, the Catholic Community Foundation of Waterloo Region, and Marillac Place.
I’m especially excited to get to know all of the wonderful volunteers here in New Hamburg. Without the reliable service of hundreds of volunteers, MCC would not be able to make the depth of impact that it does. I look forward to meeting you, hearing your stories, and working together as we continue advancing the mission of MCC and supporting the meaningful work happening through the New Hamburg Thrift Centre. Thank you for the time, care, and dedication you bring to this community—it truly makes a difference.
BIRTHDAYS
Pow Wows 101
Learn the basics of what Indigenous Pow Wows are all about. Attend in person in Kitchener or online.
New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale Fundraising Dinner
Enjoy an evening out and a delicious catered meal to support the relief sale.
April Closures
A quick reminder that the shop will be closed on April 3 for Good Friday. We also wish you a time of reflection and celebration on Easter Sunday. I hope you will be able to spend time with your church community and families. The shop doors will again be open on what some consider to be Easter Monday. We look forward to seeing you then.
What do you call a hen who counts her own eggs?
Joke of the Month A mathema-chicken!
