Rainbow Thrift Shoppe Volunteer Spotlight: Lori Krasemann

Meet Lori Krasemann - Rainbow Thrift Shoppe Volunteer

How long have you been volunteering with the Rainbow and at the Thrift Shoppe?

• I started volunteering with Rainbow over four years ago. I began working as a receptionist at the Rainbow Hospice Care Inpatient Center and I have visited patients in their homes. I still visit with a patient I started seeing four years ago! I started at the Thrift Shoppe on the first day they started to accept donations.

What initially inspired you to volunteer with Rainbow?

• My first experience with hospice was when my father entered the Inpatient Center to receive respite care. Since that time, I have had other friends and relatives use Rainbow’s services. I was immediately captivated by the compassion and dedication that define Rainbow's service and commitment to its patients and the community.

What tasks do you typically help with when you're volunteering?

• I have learned the ins and outs in all areas at the Thrift Shoppe, from accepting donations, sorting, pricing, staging and packing purchases for shoppers. My main tasks are stocking, organizing, pricing and replenishing the book shelves, crafts, party supplies, office supplies, music and movies.

What is the most rewarding part of your volunteer role?

• The most rewarding part of volunteering is the people! I really enjoy helping customers. I love seeing their reaction and excitement when they find a “treasure” or the happiness they have when they find a “good deal!" I've appreciated building new friendships with staff and volunteers. I enjoy the laughter, sharing ideas, and the support we offer each other, always striving to make the shopping experience enjoyable. I see the Thrift Shoppe as a tool for raising awareness of Rainbow Community Care and its services in Jefferson and nearby counties.

How does knowing that your work at the Thrift Shoppe directly supports Rainbow's local hospice and palliative care programs make you feel?

• I see the Thrift Shoppe as a tool for raising awareness of Rainbow Community Care and its services in Jefferson and nearby counties.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering volunteering at the Thrift Shoppe?

• If you have it in your heart to serve others in a relaxed and caring environment, have an attitude of helpfulness and compassion, and love meeting new people and making new friends, I strongly encourage you to consider volunteering at the Thrift Shoppe. There are so many various tasks that need to be done on a daily basis. The staff will be sure to find a job that best meets your skills and needs. If it is your mission to serve others not just with words but in truth and action this is the place for you!

Is there anything else you’d like the community to know about your experience at the Thrift Shoppe? You also have a name placard on at your work area that says, "I'm Kind of a Big Deal." How did that come about?

• “I’m Kind of a Big Deal” placard was given to me as a gift at Christmas. I work hard and absolutely love what I do at the Thrift Shoppe. I love to make people smile. I volunteer with joy, purpose, and thankfulness. At the Shoppe, I'm considered a Big Deal—a compliment I appreciate because it reflects others' recognition of my efforts. So, I just take it in stride and agree with them. “Yes, I am big deal. Thank you!” I am grateful for the opportunity to serve others through my work at the Thrift Shoppe.

"Lori is the sweetest, nicest, most genuine and giving person you will ever find. She is always smiling and happy; I can see why so many of our patients love and have loved her. We knew she was a rock star visiting, but she really knocked it out of the park at the RTS! We are so lucky to have her on our team!" - Jill Radke, Rainbow Volunteer Coordinator

"Lori is always willing to step in to help with just about anything. She is our craft guru! But her talents do not stop there. She is also the keeper of the books and media." - Amy Amato, Rainbow Thrift Shoppe Manager