Donnell Blonjeaux-Willis

When asked why she wanted to work at a homeless shelter, namely The Calgary Drop-In & Rehab Centre (DI), Donnell Blonjeaux-Willis answered, “Because I want to make a difference.”

And make a difference she did.

For three and a half years Donnell was an integral member of our Volunteer Services team. She streamlined the individual volunteer application process, she updated our Volunteer Orientation Training and taught it regularly to new volunteers. She wrote articles for our quarterly newsletter, helped organize a concert, and assisted in developing our art program. She added enormous value in every area of the Volunteer Program and throughout the DI.

Whatever Donnell did, she did it with grace and ease. She met deadlines, sometimes ridiculously short deadlines, without complaint. She treated everyone, from intoxicated clients to CEOs of major corporations with dignity and respect. She delivered. Excellence. Dedication. Honesty. Compassion. Empathy. Her best.

We are sorry to see Donnell go but delighted that she has chosen to pursue her studies. We wish her all the best and welcome her back, whether just for a visit, as a volunteer or for employment. She is someone you always want to have on your team.