By Raissa Valencia, Hubbard House Community Engagement Coordinator
At Hubbard House, volunteers are a vital part of our ability to provide life-saving, life-changing services to survivors and their families. Last year, we served more than 4,700 survivors and children across our community, thanks in part to dedicated volunteers like Melinda Eckert.
An experienced volunteer advocate, Melinda has contributed more than 2,400 hours of service over the past 17 years, providing support and compassion to survivors of domestic violence and their children.
“It adds a lot to my life to be able to work here and toward the purpose of Hubbard House,” Melinda shares. “It makes me feel so much better about life in general being able to help others.”
At Hubbard House’s Outreach Center, Melinda is often one of the first people survivors meet when seeking support and services. Her kindness, empathy, and steady presence help create a welcoming environment during some of a survivor’s most challenging moments.
Before joining Hubbard House, Melinda spent nearly 30 years as a registered nurse serving patients through public health and human service agencies. Her lifelong commitment to helping others continues today through her volunteer service.
When asked why she volunteers with Hubbard House, Melinda says it’s “such a worthy organization” that not only supports survivors and their children but also helps educate the community about healthy relationships and violence prevention.
Reflecting on her years of service, Melinda says she “couldn’t be working for a more deserving” organization and encourages others to volunteer.
“[It’s] probably the most worthy thing you can do,” Melinda says.
We are grateful for Melinda’s dedication and the lasting impact she has made on survivors and families throughout our community. Volunteers like Melinda make our mission possible.
Inspired by Melinda’s commitment? Visit our Volunteer page to learn how you can support survivors and promote safety in our community.