Meet our Volunteer Resources Assistants
Have you had the chance to meet Shaolin Sanders and Jack Mao? They both joined the volunteer resources team in November! We recently had the opportunity to chat with them to learn more about their backgrounds and what they are looking forward to in their new roles.
Shaolin
Welcome, Shaolin! Tell us a little bit about your background.
I have more than seven years of experience as a volunteer and supporting volunteer operations for multiple nonprofits. At age 15, my passion for service was sparked after I attended the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership Conference. Since then, I have completed well over 1,000 hours of service in varying areas of need—from youth leadership to domestic violence, homelessness, and hunger. I previously taught kindergarten at a Waldorf-inspired school in Colorado Springs.
What are you looking forward to with your new role at Project Angel Heart, and what do you like most about working in volunteer resources?
I’m looking forward to being of service to a new demographic I have not yet served and building strong relationships with the amazing volunteers who help us make magic every week. Since starting at Project Angel Heart, every person I have met has had something kind and admirable about them. The pure dedication, compassion, and ease this community embodies through their service has been very humbling and inspirational. It is very special to be a part of this work!
What are some of your hobbies and interests?
Some of my hobbies include hiking, camping, journaling, and going to music festivals. I also do professional fire performing, and circus acts in my free time!
Jack
Welcome to Volunteer Resources, Jack! Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I moved to the United States from China when I was 18 to study at the University of Denver. After completing my bachelor’s degrees in mathematics and philosophy, I continued my education at CU Boulder, where I earned master’s degrees in Japanese and linguistics. In 2018, I began my journey at Project Angel Heart as a kitchen volunteer. I later became a staff member in January 2023. In November, I transitioned from client services to volunteer resources.
What are you looking forward to with your new role at Project Angel Heart, and what do you like most about working in volunteer resources?
I’m looking forward to connecting with our volunteers, showing our appreciation to them, and making their experience here as positive as my own. One of the best parts about working in volunteer resources is getting to know our volunteers. I hope to learn more about what works well for them and how we can enhance their experience so they look forward to each day here as much as I do.
What are some of your hobbies and interests?
My hobbies are eclectic, to say the least: watercolor painting, card making, crocheting, hanging out with friends, and playing the saxophone with the Mile High Freedom Bands. I also love plants and exotic pets. I have more than a hundred species of plants, two crabs, two tree frogs, two turtles, and a 20-gallon tank filled with tropical fish!
