Friday, November 23, 2012

Volunteer Profile: Christa Riner


You may be familiar with Christa Riner’s smiling face or friendly voice if you have stopped by The Commonplace over the past year and a half. Since May of 2011, Christa has served as Executive Director Keith Adams’ administrative assistant, but that is not the only hat she wears. Helping out at Common Things Thrift Store and answering – or finding the answer to – any question that comes her way are just a few of the reasons Christa is an essential part of Common Heart’s small revolution of kindness.

Christa found Common Heart when the Monroe-based commodities program she previously volunteered for closed. After learning about Common Heart and its mission, she made the decision to continue serving here in Indian Trail. After a few conversations with Keith, the two found that Christa had the very skills Common Heart that had an immediate need looking for, and the rest is history.

After struggling to find work for some time, this opportunity was an answer to prayer. “It gave me a purpose again. I like helping people and working on the administrative side of things,” Christa said. “For me, it is a job,” she continued. “It has been an experience, a journey and a blessing.”

One of the experiences Christa values most is building valuable relationships. She recalls a fellow volunteer opening her eyes to a new perspective in the midst of a particularly difficult situation. “It was one of those moments when something kind of slaps you sideways,” explained Christa. Her new friend and fellow volunteer helped her overcome a tough situation through listening and fellowship.

That’s what it is all about – people helping people, neighbors becoming friends. “When you help others you often find that you are also helping yourself,” Christa said. “Besides, there is nothing better than the feeling you get after you help someone else without expecting anything in return.”



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