The Christi Center is a volunteer-driven organization. While we do have a small paid staff–we have close to 200 volunteers each year who contribute, on average, more than 10,000 hours annually. We’d like to spotlight some of those volunteers who are making a contribution of their time and talents–the only way we’d be able to serve the needs of those who are grieving or supporting a grieving person in our community.
If you are interested in learning more about how you can get involved with The Christi Center, please read more here.
I’d like to introduce Heather Moeller, who volunteers for the Kids Who Kare program in Williamson County. The Williamson County Kids Who Kare group serves children 5-12 years old, and meets the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month. If you are interested in learning more about the Kids Who Kare program, please call us at 512-467-2600, or email our Kids Who Kare coordinator, Victoria Valles (victoria AT christicenter DOT org.)
Lara: How did you initially become involved with The Christi Center?
Heather: I first became involved with The Christi Center last year. A wonderful colleague and amazing school nurse, Mary Shields, told me about y’all.
Lara: How has your involvement evolved?
Heather: Since last year, I have helped out with the kids’ group in Georgetown. First with Katy, then with Erin, and now with Victoria. They are all great women and I have loved working with all of them! Each has a unique style that helps the kids process and heal in different ways.
Lara: What is a stand-out moment for you that you were a part of while volunteering with us?
Heather: The moments that stand out for me are those snippets of “FLOW”. The part in groups when everyone is engaged and connected. When kids are smiling, joking with one another, and bonding. It’s a beautiful thing!
Lara: What do you think is the best way to help a friend who is grieving?
Heather: I think the best way to help a grieving friend is to move past your fears related to loss and just be with them. Many times people feel uncomfortable or simply don’t know what to say. I struggled with this and volunteering at the Christi Center has helped me lean in and be fully present to support and connect others in a vulnerable time.
Lara: What is your favorite quote?
Heather: One of my favorite quotes came from the comedian George Carlin during a comedy show. He said, “I had a perfectly wonderful childhood….which was terrible preparation for real life.” The moment I heard this line, I felt that he perfectly captured (in a George Carlin way) the resilience and richness of the human experience.
Thank you, Heather, for your openness and for all you do to support grieving families in Central Texas! –Lara