Baldwin Center

Walking into the Baldwin Center I really didn't know what to expect. I had volunteered in Pontiac before, but I had not heard of this organization. I was unaware of what services they offered and to whom they offered them to. Despite my lack of familiarity with the Center I was excited to be able to volunteer instead of sitting in a classroom.

Once our tour started, I realized that the Center offered a variety of services and was composed of several different buildings. I thought that their commitment to maintaining a grass roots volunteer organization while offering opportunities to develop and expand others' ideas was very intriguing. The organization allows for individuals or groups to be innovative in developing programs to fit the needs of their customers.

It was a very laid back environment. There seemed at times to be a lack of organization and professionalism, but I also feel that this environment may lend itself more readily to its volunteers. I was impressed to find that the Center currently offers almost 30 different services.

When I left I felt enlightened. I was grateful for the opportunity to volunteer and make an organizational effort in their clothes closet. While we were there my classmates and I joked about the 'stylish' clothes. When I left I couldn't help but pause and watch us all jump into our nice cars. I took a second to be thankful for not having to rely on those services and to be able to help those in need.