I feel like a part of the family, a good one!

What would this world be like without volunteers? Without people who are generous with their time and skills in helping others, we couldn’t do what we do. So many important and meaningful programs would not be successful without the generosity of volunteers. We are excited to introduce you to one of our amazing Kettle Volunteers, Sean.

Sean McGuire is a champion of The Kettle and a volunteer at the Recovery Café. He’s a photography enthusiast who created a workshop for our members. Every Wednesday he teaches them all about capturing the best angles, colors, composition, and much more. 

We asked Sean about his experience as a volunteer at The Kettle – what he has learned, what aspects he enjoys most, and if this role has influenced his life in any way. 

We are grateful to have amazing human beings like Sean on our team. 

Q&A with Sean

  • How did you hear about The Kettle and what drew you to want to volunteer with us?

    I work for a charitable foundation and at the time we were seeking local charities that focus their efforts on helping those with mental illness and substance abuse. The Kettle Society was on top of our list because of its excellent management, effective programming, and wonderful people. After diving deeper into the organization, we really realize how special The Kettle is and the effect of their work in our community.

  • What is something you have learned from The Kettle?

    I came to The Kettle as a volunteer but I realize how important The Kettle has become in my own life. There is an understanding at the Recovery Café that everyone is recovering from something. Current or past struggles, big or small. I think there’s something that everyone can learn from that. I think the ultimate goal is just to break down the barriers that are preventing us from truly being free. And also, to increase our capacity for generosity and compassion. And it’s become quite apparent that The Kettle has created something special here. This is a wonderful environment for people to achieve this.

  • What is your favorite part of volunteering with The Kettle?

    My favorite part, I have to say, is developing new relationships through the art of photography. Doing photography makes you slow down, and look at the world in a different way. Makes you notice the shadows, light and colors, and it’s really nice to hear members tell me that they are seeing the world with a new perspective. They are uncovering new beauty in the world. Recently, we created a photo wall at the Recovery Café, we printed of some of the member’s photos, and it’s really nice to witness how proud they are of their work. And it’s inspiring to them because they want to learn and grow more. While they are building friendships and the community. And I am proud of them.

  • You are influencing other people's lives. Do they have any influence on you?

    Absolutely! I look forward to every volunteer session at The Kettle. I know that every time that I walk through that door I’m going to have an enriching experience with members and the staff. And it is really deeply fulfilling to develop relationships with these folks that I’ve met. I feel like I’m part of the family. A good one!

“Doing photography makes you slow down, and look at the world in a different way. Makes you notice the shadows, light, and colors. It’s really nice to hear members tell me that they are seeing the world with a new perspective. They are uncovering new beauty in the world”.

- Sean McGuire, volunteer at The Kettle