Gettysburg Cares

Happy 13th Birthday, Gettysburg CARES!

Gettysburg CARES recently celebrated its 13th anniversary of providing cold weather shelter to folks experiencing homelessness in Adams County. The much-needed rain did not dampen the spirits of those attending the birthday party. One theme of the celebration was the unexpected rewards of volunteering.

CARES volunteers interact with and listen to guests, sometimes offer nightly devotions, or may spend the night at the shelter. Other volunteers prepare breakfast before guests leave for work or go about their day. CARES trained staff stay awake overnight and help with any issues.

Volunteers say that CARES offers the chance to act directly upon their spiritual beliefs. As CARES Board President Paul Stokely notes, “the issues we face as a society are many and deep and few of us have the time or patience to give to all our neighbors in need. Shelters provide refuge and support to those facing harsh realities that are difficult for others to imagine. Volunteering at a shelter can reshape one’s understanding of community, compassion, and purpose.”

Volunteers often speak of the warmth and genuine gratitude they receive from some guests. Each conversation, whether it’s about work or family or a favorite movie, breaks down stereotypes and builds empathy. Volunteers say that they are inspired by the determination and spirit of those they meet, gaining a deeper appreciation for the struggles others face. School-age guests, especially, show a real resiliency.

Volunteers also meet one another. Adams County has an impressive number of people who donate their time, money and ideas – people who wish to see others thrive and make our community a better place. Volunteering offers the richest form of networking there is.

Stokely adds that, “acts of kindness and altruism can also lead to increased happiness, reduced stress, and greater life satisfaction,” as countless studies show. Working in a shelter can prompt volunteers to reflect on their blessings and appreciate the comforts and stability in their own lives.

Finally, the ripple effect of volunteering is powerful and one person’s commitment can motivate friends, family, and colleagues to take action. Adams County offers many opportunities to help others. It’s no secret that these programs consist mostly of people volunteering. The more volunteers that get involved, the greater the reach and effectiveness of such programs.

If you are interested in volunteering this winter, preparing breakfasts, spending the night at the shelter, leading devotions, or anything at all, please contact us. We can walk you through what to expect and put you in touch with other volunteers to share their experiences and answer questions. Email [email protected] or [email protected] and we will be glad to talk.

The Adams County Community Giving Spree will be both live and online this year. The live event is November 6th from 3:00 to 7:00 at the Gettysburg Wyndham Hotel. Please consider attending. You will walk away very proud to live here. Online information is available at ACCFGivingSpree.org. Our sincere thanks to the Adams County Community Foundation for their tireless efforts, skills and inspiration! See you there.

Christopher Fee
Volunteer, C.A.R.E.S.
Graeff Professor of English, Gettysburg College
Member, College Advisory Council, Eisenhower Institute
Member, Menallen Monthly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers)
Co-Clerk, American Friends Service Committee Northeast Region
Member, Standing Nominating Committee, American Friends Service Committee

https://www.gettysburgtimes.com/life_entertainment/columns/article_276d3c73-9d07-450b-8b29-61785aa5ef3f.html

Gettysburg C.A.R.E.S. is currently hiring for the winter 2025-2026 season. Staff will be needed for oversight at the Resource Center, as well as for the overnight shift. There is considerable flexibility in this schedule for the right person. CARES is an emergency cold-weather shelter for those without housing in Adams County, PA, and would like staff that has a heart for people experiencing homelessness. Salary is $18.00 hourly and no benefits. Please send your resume to [email protected] or [email protected]