Brookdale volunteer coordinator urges sign-ups, describes shelter work

Latrellis Guy, who coordinates volunteers and community outreach at Brookdale, described the shelter’s day-to-day work and urged residents to sign up to help through United Way of Central Georgia. Guy, who said they have worked at Brookdale since July 2021, outlined tasks ranging from planning events to arranging cafeteria menus for residents.

"We are a homeless shelter. We house men, women, and families that are in need," Guy said, explaining that Brookdale provides sheltered space and assistance with documentation and other needs while residents work toward stability. Guy emphasized that stays are not intended to be permanent: they said residents usually remain for a limited period as they secure housing and resources.

Guy said their role involves much behind-the-scenes coordination: recruiting volunteers, organizing outreach events and handling logistics for resident meals and activities. Speaking from experience, they said working at the shelter changed their perception of homelessness, noting that it is not only people sleeping on the street but can affect people from many backgrounds.

"You can have it all today, and it can be gone tomorrow," Guy said, urging humility and patience when helping people in crisis. They described maintaining relationships with many families after they leave the shelter and said those successful transitions are a core part of their work.

Those interested in volunteering were told to contact Guy directly or visit United Way of Central Georgia's website and use the "get involved" tab to sign up. No formal motions or votes were recorded in the transcript excerpt.

This account is drawn from a recorded statement by Latrellis Guy in the provided transcript where they introduced themself and described Brookdale's services and volunteer needs.