Surviving a difficult childhood can develop the strength and resilience needed to help others. This month’s volunteer spotlight features Haley Amidan because of her ability to heal from those traumas and assist others in the same position. The challenges that she faced as a child and adolescent compelled her to join the Children’s Foundation and become one of our lead volunteers during the Holiday Heroes campaign.

Haley’s Story: Volunteering as Healing

“When I was 8, my mom began accusing me of things I didn’t do, like stealing. This period of my life was very difficult and I was in and out of juvenile hall until 18. If it weren’t for that structure and the care of social workers, I wouldn’t have been accountable to anyone,” Haley shared. Her story mirrors that of many children removed from their homes due to abuse, negligence and parents with deep mental or emotional problems.

Over five years later, Haley is on track to complete her Associate’s degree with a double major in Corrections and Administration of Justice. She is focused on the future and prepared to take on the difficult work of helping children in need.

“I want to start a career in the juvenile justice system,” she says brightly, “because I know what it feels like to be in it. The system is broken and I want to help correct the injustices that exist.”

What Volunteering Means to Haley

Many children are forced onto negative paths because of an unstable home-life. Intervention and intensive care guide them to a life that is meaningful. For Haley, that meant finding the footing she needed to move forward.

“I don’t know what would have happened to me if I stayed in the situation I was in. Now, I want to help other kids find their way and heal from their pasts,” Haley explains. Haley’s plans include continuing to volunteer with the Children’s Foundation as a way to give back and pursuing her passion for helping children receive the support they need to move on with their lives after traumatic experiences.

The Children’s Foundation relies on volunteers like Haley to take the lead at events and fundraisers. To find out more about volunteering with the Children’s Foundation click here.

Kelly Baumann, AmeriCorps VIP Fellow
Kelly specializes in creating and optimizing digital content for the Children’s Foundation of America blog. She has ten years of experience as a marketer and has held a variety of positions including content writer, social media coordinator, public relations executive and content strategist. At Children’s Foundation of America, Kelly focuses on sharing stories and information to educate the public about the issues faced by children that Children’s Foundation of America serves.
Tel: (909)426-0773 | Email: kbaumann@trinityys.org