Volunteer Spotlight: Big Personality in a Little Package
The town of Independence, MO, about 20 minutes east of Kansas City, is home to special Crossroads Hospice Volunteer that’s seen more than you can imagine and gives more of her time in a week than most do in a year. On Mondays from 11:30am to 1:00pm, you can drive by the local courthouse and in front of the Harry Truman statue, you’ll see her. She’s the tiny woman, delicately crocheting her latest project.
People are drawn to her for many reasons: free crochet lessons, the interesting earrings she creates and her infectious smile. You want to get to know her. Her name is Carolyn Kline, and she’s never met a stranger! Carolyn was born in Kentucky but moved to Independence when she was four years old. She graduated from Truman High School on a Saturday and was married the next. Their lives went in different directions, and Carolyn met her current husband, Dave, at the Missouri State Fair where he was working in the carnival. In November, they will celebrate 41 years of marriage.
After getting married, Dave and Carolyn traveled the carnival circuit for a bit before settling in Independence. Carolyn has two daughters, Teresa and Amy. She says having a second child at the age of 36 was the best experience of her life. Her youngest currently lives in Los Angeles chasing the acting dream.
Carolyn has gotten the privilege to work in a variety of exciting fields throughout her life. In addition to working in a carnival, she’s waited tables, worked for Hallmark, was an airline reservationist and worked for the Auto Club, telling people where to go and how to get there. She currently works for a temp agency doing light warehouse work which allows her the flexibility to make time for the things she’s passionate about. One of the things she’s passionate about is being a Crossroads Hospice volunteer. Carolyn is a dedicated and selfless volunteer. She has a natural grace and ease about her that allows patients to feel comfortable and open up. She’s been known to bring in a meal for the caregiver and sit at the table to talk and visit, but most of all she listens. She’s always willing to help in whatever ways she can, from patient visits to setting respite to lending a hand in the office. She draws her strength and motivation from her past experiences of overcoming loss within her family. Volunteer Manager Karen Goodson says, “Carolyn is an “Energizer Bunny” when it comes to her volunteer service! Her enthusiasm is contagious and her caring nature creates a safe place for both patients and family to feel secure.” If you would like to offer a hand like Carolyn, please visit our Volunteer Application form or call us at 888-564-3405.
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