By Susan Summers
Sue Huntley used to ride the rails of New York state and the subways of the Big Apple to do her job as a travelling computer consultant. No shrinking violet, she’s a confident woman who pragmatically sized up every environment she encountered to ensure her safety and success. After arriving in Vail via Washington state with her husband John, she began looking for a volunteer gig that would provide interaction and fulfillment. Greater Vail Community Resources fit the bill. As Sue explains it, “In my job I was used to being on the go, and after retirement I discovered that I missed being with people and keeping busy. There’s a great sense of comradery in volunteering at ReSources Vail Food Bank and the Vail Depot Thrift Store—working with others toward a common goal and helping our community.” Keeping it a family affair, John Huntley also volunteers his time every Friday morning by picking up food donations from local grocery stores using the ReSources van.
When asked if she had a favorite work venue, Sue declined to pick the Depot Thrift Store over Vail ReSources Food Bank “They are just different volunteer experiences, each with their own appeal. The Depot Thrift Store is socially stimulating and it’s fun helping people shop. I get a lot of satisfaction from hearing our customers comment on how nice the store looks, and how clean we’re keeping it during this pandemic. On the other hand, time spent at the food bank lets me get to know some of our clients and their families while treating them like neighbors.”
It’s important to point out that the Vail Depot Thrift Store was not able to open fully in July as was hoped, but it has begun online sales as well as making individual appointments for in-store shopping. Extra precautions, like a new plexy glass screen at the cashier station and a mask requirement for staff and shoppers, ensure a low risk environment for all. (To make a shopping appointment, call 520-879-1260 during Depot hours: Tuesday / Thursday, 10 -2, or Saturdays, 9-2. You can also book a shopping visit directly on Facebook:
With a husband who retired from a career in public health, Sue Huntley is well acquainted with the need for Covid 19 precautions. She noted, “I’m very conscious about the possibility of transmitting the virus and I know how to protect myself. I consider myself a healthy person and I’m very outspoken about the need for masks and social distancing. But I wouldn’t continue to volunteer at ReSources if I was afraid to come in.” That’s what makes her extra special to her workmates and clients. ReSources is understandably proud to have Sue and John Huntley and many more volunteers supporting its mission. If you would like to join them in serving Vail, you can apply through the web site: www.resourcesvail.org
