Volunteer Spotlight: Sue and Jerry Von Handorf

Sue and Jerry Von Handorf’s passion to help those without a place to call home all began many years ago with Jerry’s weekly Sunday morning bike rides through Covington. During one of those rides, Jerry stopped in Goble Park where a staff member of the Welcome House was offering hot coffee to homeless men and women in the park. Jerry then made it a weekly stop on his Sunday rides to enjoy coffee and conversation with ‘the guys’. His wife Sue then began making coffee cakes and muffins for Jerry to offer to those in the park as well, and that was the seed that grew into their passion for helping those without a place to call home.

Sue and Jerry first became involved with the Emergency Shelter of Northern Kentucky at their Scott Street location by serving monthly meals. They also helped in other ways at the shelter by organizing the donation room, helping with laundry, and lending a hand wherever there was a need.

Years later, their work continues at ESNKY at the current location on W. 13th Street by providing dinner with their friends to guests on the fourth Friday of every month.

“Quite often the guests ask, ‘What church are you all from?’ They are surprised to hear that we are just a group of friends coming together to help make their life a little easier, at least for the moment. The guests always offer us a hardy thank you,” says Sue.

Sue goes on to share that each person volunteering in their group brings their own unique talents to the shelter.

“When serving our monthly meals, we have a team of wonderful friends. We all like to cook and to share meals. Being at the shelter lets us do that and at the same time meet the needs of some of our fellow human beings. We have one couple who provides what has become known as the “big salad”. Most guests come back for seconds when available. We also have a few team members who can talk to anyone, making people feel comfortable and letting them know that someone cares about them. We all bring something to the table,” explains Sue.

Sue says through the efforts of her, her husband, and friends, they hope to make a small impact in the lives of those seeking services at ESNKY.

“We are all in this together. Let us help one another in whatever way we can. Beyond that, let us have and offer hope to those we meet!” says Sue.

If you’d like to become a volunteer, like Sue and Jerry, contact Maya Mintu, ESNKY Volunteer Coordinator at maya.mintu@esnky.net or (859) 291 – 4555.