News

Volunteer Spotlight: Rick Merrill

Terry Thompson and Rick Merrill discuss plans for the new IAM thrift store on Freeman Street.

By Lightning Reports, Published: November 27, 2021

Rick Merrill

Interfaith Assistance Ministry

What do you do in your volunteer job?
In the getting ready to build phase (of the IAM building on Freeman Street), I shared my knowledge and experience with prior development and construction projects. While it was being built, I visited the job site daily. Later, I was invited to become a board member. Currently, I am helping IAM build its Thrift Store, serving as owner's representative and visiting the job site daily. This process started about three years ago as we began planning for the store. I serve as board vice chair and have been nominated to be chair next year. This will be the sixth board I have chaired. I also serve on the board development and nominating committee. Recently I sought to become an intake volunteer and just completed the training to do so.

How long have you been volunteering?
I started as a member of the building committee about 6 years ago as IAM began the construction of the main building on Freeman Street.

Why do you volunteer?
Volunteering with what skills and experience I have is both satisfying to me and useful to IAM.

What’s the best thing about volunteering?
The best part of volunteering for me is seeing dreams grow to fruition. And to know I am saving the organization money in the process.

If someone is interested in volunteering, what advice would you give based on your own experience?
Anyone who has time to invest in our community should seek to give back in a way that is enhanced by putting their skill sets to good work. Pick a not for profit for whose mission you have passion.