Volunteer: Matthew Archuleta

How was your volunteer experience been with Columbus House?

I've really enjoyed my experience with Columbus House thus far. I have been adamant about helping Homeless Veterans and they've provided a really meaningful way to do it.

What do you do when you volunteer with them?

I'm a delivery person. Due to Covid, they are extremely protective of their volunteers so I primarily pickup food packages and deliver them to a hotel that is housing homeless veteran with very little contact with anyone.

Who do you interact with? (employees? other volunteers? New Haven residents? students?) How have those interactions been?

On the pickup side, I call the touchpoint at Columbus House as I'm arriving. She brings out a cart full of food and is effusive of her thanks for being a volunteer. My next interaction is once I arrive at the hotel, I usually have a socially distant wave to the owner/clerk as I drop off the food on a pre-setup table. That's it!

What have you learned about Columbus House since you started volunteering with them?

First, that it exists. Being a first year means we are learning the area. I'm glad it's doing such a wonderful thing and that the people are so motivated by to help put people in housing.

Do you plan to continue volunteering with them throughout the year? Why or why not?

Yes, I am already signed up for another three days. I plan the quarter as soon as I know my schedule. As a veteran, the toll that combat takes on bodies and minds is extensive. To know that some of my soldiers or peers could be in this position at some point is heartbreaking. I do this for them.

What would you say to other SOM students who are considering volunteering with Columbus House?

It's very easy to do and it's important to help those in need especially right now. Take it one day and a time and every little bit helps!