Wisdom in the Wild: Introducing Our New Volunteer Coordinator

"Charity is not about erasing differences but about fostering relationships where both parties are enriched."
— Ismael Hernandez, Rethinking Charity

At Project Dignity, volunteering is more than just giving back — it’s about building relationships that strengthen the entire community. While practical and material support matter, the real impact of volunteering comes through connection, trust, and sharing life together. Volunteers are not just helpers; they are friends, neighbors, and companions on the journey.

That journey — the unpredictable, sometimes messy, yet deeply meaningful work of walking alongside refugees— is what inspired the title Wisdom in the Wild. In my academic background, I studied truth, beauty, and goodness as abstract ideals, but working with refugees has brought them to life in unexpected ways. Here, wisdom is not found in books alone but in the courage of those rebuilding their lives and in the friendships formed through shared experience.

With that in mind, we are excited to welcome Kathy Shreiner as our new Volunteer Coordinator. Kathy brings years of experience in healthcare, education, and community engagement, along with a deep understanding of what it means to serve with wisdom and humility.

Kathy began her career as a nurse, primarily caring for individuals with chronic conditions in home care and geriatrics. Raising her two daughters opened new volunteer opportunities through their schools, and later, she transitioned into education, working as a trained reading specialist and catechist before retiring. A lifelong learner, she later earned a BS in Organizational Leadership to deepen her commitment to servant leadership. Guided by her Catholic faith, she has dedicated herself to community service, volunteering with organizations such as Catholic Charities, the St. Vincent de Paul Society, and the Catholic Worker. Her experience spans crisis support, refugee resettlement, and homeless services.

As Volunteer Coordinator, Kathy will equip and support those who give their time to Project Dignity, ensuring volunteers are well-prepared — whether they’re helping a newly arrived family adjust to life in South Bend or providing practical assistance like transportation or language support. She will also develop ongoing training opportunities, fostering a culture of respect, dignity, and genuine friendship among volunteers. With her experience in both direct service and leadership, she will help shape a volunteer network that is not just effective but deeply connected to our mission.

I have known Kathy for years and recently reconnected with her through our shared work in refugee support. Her broad experience, deep commitment to service, and ability to build meaningful relationships make her an invaluable asset to Project Dignity. We are excited for the wisdom she will bring as we continue learning, growing, and serving together — in the wild.