There were a couple of weeks in the last month where it felt like I was meeting someone new in the nursery every day. This was to my delight– it was refreshing to see so many new individuals eager to give back to our community.
The frequency at which I was encountering so many new faces was all thanks to our new volunteer coordinator, Melody, who had been working tirelessly to provide our infant care specialists and nurses with some extra support in the nursery. More cuddlers meant more babies in arms more frequently, receiving the healing touch of a warm, regulated body. It’s life changing for these infants.
During my assigned days in the nursery, I had the pleasure of meeting one volunteer who brought a beautiful spirit and energy to her very first shift as a cuddler. Every week she brought the same, comforting smile and ready hands, eager to offer that life-changing snuggle and learn more ways she could love on our babies. Her name is Merri.
Merri, who recently retired as a teacher, learned about Maddie’s Place through a friend. She had heard wonderful things about our organization and missed her time around babies. She applied, was accepted, and went through the volunteer training.
Inspired by her passion for our work so early into her volunteering with us, I asked Merri if she would be willing to reflect on her time at Maddie’s Place so far– to tell me about her experience in the nursery.
Here is what she wrote to me:
There are few volunteer opportunities more life giving than Maddie’s Place. As I walked in the door for the first time, I could tell this would be my place for a meaningful retirement opportunity. It didn’t take long to make a decision to be involved. Could I really be so lucky to get in on such a good thing?
The first thing I learned was the philosophy of this organization. It is the cornerstone of their success. Here at Maddie’s Place, they realize substance exposed babies really do have unique needs in order to thrive. By observing the practices of the knowledgeable caretakers, I know that Moby wraps, snug swaddling, vertical positions for holding and skin to skin contact are so important to the babies’ well-being. This is my favorite part of the volunteer cuddling opportunity. That and, of course, just watching the cute faces they make.
Also worth noting is the unconditional love for the healing mothers. In my conversations with them, I know they feel warmth and comfort as well as hope for a better future. One mom told me that all she had ever known was drugs and alcohol, and that she was so excited to start her new life after being at Maddie’s. I can’t think of a better recipe for success, as I know upon leaving, she will continue to be welcomed into a community of graduates with more opportunities for connection. Cookie decorating, watercolor painting, and a trip to Splash Down water park are examples I have been aware of since I began my volunteer work here.
Finally, the employees here seem to take this as their personal mission as well as their job. I have witnessed teamwork in best care practices, scheduling and organizing mothers’ appointments, and sharing knowledge of each baby’s need for soothing and comfort. Each worker takes pride in their important contribution to the success of this model of love and care for vulnerable infants.
I thank everyone at Maddie’s Place for this gift of allowing me to volunteer at such a great organization. Most likely, you will see me here for some time!
-Merri
Maddie’s Place is blessed to have so many admirable volunteers, taking time out of their day to love on the most vulnerable. Whether they have been with us several years, or several months, their dedication and passion for this work truly shines.
This blog was posted on August 29, 2025.
Questions? Suggestions? Email us at info@maddiesplace.org.