Meet Hal

Name: Hal Skloff

When did you start volunteering? About 3 years ago. My wife, Esse, also started volunteering at the same time. She does a lot of the paper work for the Food Services Department.

How often do you volunteer? At least once a week. Once in a while I come in twice a week.

What are your volunteer responsibilities? I am a retired pharmacist. I am able to use those skills that I had in my career to be of service here in the clinic. I sort and catalog the donated medications that the clinic receives.

What led you to volunteer at WSRM? I wanted to help people. I also wanted to work in a “worth-while” organization. Working at the Water Street Rescue Mission Clinic gave me that opportunity.

Have you ever volunteered before (at other places)? Yes! I actually still volunteer at the Health Campus. I work in the humor library there. I wear a crazy hat and take a cart of books around to people’s rooms, hoping to get them to laugh and to get their minds off their troubles. It is also a very rewarding experience.

What has been your favorite experience volunteering at WSRM? Why do you keep coming back? I like the people that I work with—we have a lot of fun together. I also enjoy being able to continue to use my pharmacist skills. And it is very rewarding to see people being helped—and being a part of it.

What have you learned? Since I’ve been here I’ve learned that there is a very real need for the Mission and for the clinic. I’ve also learned just how much volunteers are needed!

What would you say to others who may want to volunteer? If you are looking for a very fulfilling experience, this is a great place to be! I would encourage anyone and everyone to come try it out!