by Therese Horvat
Special to The Leaven
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — The Olde World splendor of the Strawberry Hill Museum dressed in her holiday finery here is enchanting.
And the history of this elegant Victorian home, transitioned into a children’s orphanage and then into an ethnic and cultural center, is fascinating.
But there’s something more astounding still about the Strawberry Hill Ethnic Cultural Society (SHECS), which promotes and sponsors the museum and the many programs offered there.
“The organization is 99 percent run by volunteers,” said Judy Delich, who speaks from several years of experience now with SHECS. And JoBeth Nastav, administrative director and the only paid staff member, agrees that the contributions of the volunteers are vital to the success of the center.
Preparations for this year’s Olde World Christmas, for example, began in September and October when volunteers sorted through the plentiful supply of stored decorations, formulated their design plans and transformed the entire facility into a seasonal showcase. Many of those same volunteers will be on site in January and February to dismantle and store the Christmas décor and return the museum to its year-round ambiance.
Throughout the year and amped up during the holidays, SHECS offers many diverse volunteer opportunities that keep the facility operational. Some volunteers serve as greeters, tour guides and tearoom hosts. Others staff the gift shop, write grants and curate the archives. Still others teach classes, set up exhibits and help with special events.
From yardwork to handiwork to administrative assistance, volunteer involvement is the lifeblood of the organization.
SHECS is actively recruiting new volunteers now to fill many of these roles. Janie Hayes, board member and greeter, described herself as a “master of nothing” and especially not of decorating! But, the retired nurse, administrator and educator is outgoing and passionate about the museum and about encouraging others to volunteer.
“It’s a way to meet the coolest people,” she said, “and it’s fun to hear their stories of why they visited the museum.”
Requirements for volunteering with SHECS include good people skills, a generous spirit and a willing heart. Persons can identify the role or roles they’re interested in and their schedule preferences.
Lorrie Carter, volunteer and secretary to the board, said it feels like “you are serving a purpose” by supporting SHECS efforts to promote different ethnic groups. She thinks it would be great for local history buffs to volunteer as tour guides at the museum. A brief orientation would include studying a prepared script and shadowing other volunteers.
Delich’s strong sense of organization has endeared her to the volunteers with whom she serves. She knows where everything is — down to the last Christmas ornament — and is meticulous about ensuring the many items are in tip-top order for the next holiday season. Delich likes volunteering at the museum because of the people.
“Everyone who’s here wants to be here,” she explained.
“We can’t survive without our volunteers,” Nastav added. “There are people who come and give us an hour; others give their lives to SHECS.”
All together, they work to preserve the spirit and traditions of the rich ethnic and cultural heritage of the Kansas City/Wyandotte County community.
