Service Becomes Hope & Hope Builds Community – Bryan & Beth’s Story
Bryan and Beth were both looking for a way to feel more connected to the community. The invitation came through Bryan’s sister, Rev. Brigid Beckman of Unity of Albany, who invited them to help at the FOCUS Thanksgiving Breakfast in 2024.
Right from the beginning, they could feel the warmth in the room. No one was screened and no one had to prove their need. As Bryan explained, “We want everyone to feel welcome. We’re not checking your status. You don’t have to look like you need help. You can simply come in, enjoy a warm breakfast, and be part of the community.”
The experience made an impression. Within a week, Bryan and Beth were volunteering at the Wednesday Breakfast Club.
Folks enjoying community and being together.
Why Showing Up Matters
Bryan and Beth quickly realized that volunteering at FOCUS doesn't require perfection or a specific personality. It simply involves showing up and doing what you can.
They appreciate seeing an immediate impact: a warm greeting at the door, a warm drink from the coffee station, and a space where guests recognize each other and look forward to reconnecting. The Breakfast Club is about more than just serving food; it's about seeing and acknowledging people.
Beth said, “It is companionship. What I love about Breakfast Club is that you see people repeatedly. You recognize people and get to know them, and sometimes even manage to remember their coffee order, which is very appreciated!”
Contributing in Different Ways
Beth spends her mornings at the coffee station, where she connects with guests as she serves them. She asks how they are doing and remembers their names and stories. The simple act of handing someone a cup of coffee has become a meaningful part of her week.
Outside of the Breakfast Club, both Bryan and Beth discovered that their professional experience could significantly benefit FOCUS. They were encouraged by the organization’s commitment to actively seek and value the ideas and feedback of volunteers.
“FOCUS listens. FOCUS says yes,” Beth stated. “Part of FOCUS’s mission is to engage volunteers in areas where they can truly make a difference. It’s a smart approach that keeps people involved.”
Bryan agrees. With years of experience in nonprofit facilities management, he enjoys using his skills to contribute. “I volunteer my expertise here and can make a significant difference.”
Sharing Their Expertise Beyond Breakfast
Bryan also learned that he is a natural fundraiser. When he told friends about the Breakfast Club, his enthusiasm inspired people to give. Some donated twenty dollars while others gave more. He discovered that even small gifts add up when people understand why the program matters.
Beth found another way to support FOCUS by using her marketing and communication skills. As the owner of RoeJan Design (RoeJoe Design), her web development and design studio, she designed the new FOCUS website and enjoyed collaborating with the FOCUS staff throughout the process. For her, it was another way to strengthen a community she cares about.
We are glad you are here! Here is your breakfast ticket.
A Program That Listens and Keeps Evolving
Bryan also appreciates that FOCUS is open to new ideas and that staff are empowered to act on them. Bryan recalled a moment when Derrick, FOCUS’ Breakfast Coordinator, noticed that the welcome table setup was creating a bottleneck. Volunteers were trying to greet guests and count arrivals at the same time, which made meaningful interaction difficult.
To create a calmer and more welcoming entrance, Derrick suggested repositioning the table to face the doors and introduced a ticket system that made counting much simpler. Bryan loved the change. “Being able to greet people face-to-face as they came in changed a lot. It really opened things up and allowed me to offer a warm hello. We love that.”
From entering the building to choosing their breakfast, FOCUS volunteers work to make everyone feel welcome.
A Message for Future Volunteers
When asked what they would say to someone thinking about volunteering or supporting FOCUS, Bryan and Beth offered a simple message.
You do not have to be an expert. You only need to care. FOCUS will help you find the right place to contribute, whether you want to work directly with guests or help behind the scenes.
Bryan put it this way: “The warmth matters. It is all about making people feel welcomed. We like that. People come to see their friends and enjoy a positive human interaction to start their day.”
Thursday FOCUS Breakfast Club Volunteers
Interested in Volunteering?
FOCUS welcomes people who want to help in ways that feel natural and meaningful. Whether you have a skill to share, a few hours to give, or an idea to offer, there is a place for you.
Learn more about volunteering at FOCUS Churches of Albany.