Small acts of kindness can make a big difference for the women and children of Interval House. That’s why we’re so grateful to the volunteer groups, like Avnet, that make the time to come in and cook dinner for our clients. The women truly look forward to these special nights, when they get a break from cooking and can enjoy more time with their kids. Maybe it’s an extra story at bedtime or an extra snuggle—these moments stick with them.
Rabeena and her crew from Avnet, a company that distributes electronic components and IT solutions, have been coming in several times a year since 2013. They aim to cook a meal at least once a year. Rather than simply donating money to a cause, Rabeena says they were looking for a group they could build a partnership with for the long term. They found that partner in Interval House.
“I’ve always wanted to do something to help empower women, to help them get back on their feet, to let them know that there is a life after this abuse.”
But Rabeena and her coworkers have a few things to say about the Interval House kitchen. It’s outdated and the years of daily use have taken their toll. Plus, according to Rabeena, it’s in desperate need of a new stove. “Every time I go into that kitchen, the first thing I see is that stove. It’s not the prettiest thing, and I wonder, is it even safe to turn that thing on? That stove has got to go!”
Thankfully, Avnet has committed to raising the money needed to purchase a new stove as part of our upcoming kitchen renovation. They’ve already started fundraising through internal raffles and they’ve got a few other ideas up their sleeve! Plus, Avnet Cares—an employee-led volunteer initiative that supports employees who are making a difference through hands-on and skills-based volunteerism—will match some of the money raised.
“When we had the opportunity to see some of the programs, especially the BESS program, I thought that it was great for a shelter to not just provide a safe place, but to actually help the women start a whole new life and support them through that entire process, that’s what really drove us to get involved. We feel like not only are we contributing, but we can also help [the women] get to a better place.”
