Staff attending Chiyo Sanada’s gallery installation at the Seattle Japanese Garden. Left to right: Winston Wedge, Mary Ann Goto, Chiyo Sanada, Gary Davis.
By Jillian Harmon, Assoc. E.D. for Programs
As daffodils emerge and cherry blossoms bloom, I’m reminded of spring’s lessons: renewal, impermanence, and hope for brighter days ahead. These same feelings of renewal and hope are reflected in the work of our Companis volunteers.
In uncertain times, the Companis community is a steady source of inspiration, embodying a quote shared by Japanese artist Chiyo Sanada (of Chiyo Sen nen Design Japanese Calligraphy) during a recent staff visit to the Seattle Japanese Garden. In one of her calligraphy pieces, Chiyo features a quote from Mother Teresa:
“We can do no great things, only small things with great love.”
This is the essence of what Companis volunteers do. With courage and compassion, they take small yet meaningful steps to strengthen our communities.
This month, we celebrate a few of our newest volunteers who are doing just that:
- Harry Zhang, a recent University of Washington graduate, is providing 20 hours of financial administration support to SouthEast Seattle Senior Center, helping their Director of Finance, Mary, transition smoothly into retirement.
- Barbara Isenhour, a retired elder care attorney, and Anamika Chakravarty, a University of Washington student, are supporting Sound Generation’s Senior Rights Assistance Program. Barbara offers pro bono legal support, while Anamika conducts client intake interviews at their Elder Law Clinic.
- Sarah Prentice-Mitchell, a project manager, is assisting Wild Grief, a nonprofit that helps youth and families process loss through nature. She is conducting a community needs assessment and supporting their social media efforts.
- Golden Davenport, a graphic designer, is helping Sports in Schools create their annual report, case statement, and gala materials—key tools for expanding their mission and increasing access to sports for BIPOC youth in Washington.
- Ashley Fontaine, a consultant, is providing strategic fundraising guidance to the Ballard Senior Center to help secure a more sustainable future.
In a time that can often feel overwhelming, these volunteers remind us that even the smallest acts of service can have a lasting impact. We don’t have to change the world overnight, but when we take small steps with great love, we move closer to the world we all hope to live in—together.