In 1993, Bob and I learned about the soon-to-be-open Arlington Free Clinic, and it sounded like a perfect fit. I had a nursing background and Bob had experience in the Peace Corps and International Development. We were both involved with an organization dedicated to international service before we were married, and our family had always maintained a passion for supporting the needs and sharing in the stories of people from other countries.
We could have chosen to work with any number of organizations that were filling a need that aligned with our passions and skills, but here’s why we’ve continued to serve our community through Arlington Free Clinic for over two decades:
In the early years, Bob remembers stuffing newsletters into envelopes to be mailed out to constituents in the community. While stamping what seemed like the millionth envelope, he overheard a conversation between a patient and a volunteer. He was struck by the level of kindness and respect the volunteer showed the patient in this conversation. He came back early the next week to finish his job, and there was a different patient and a different provider, but the same respect and kindness. He has never forgotten that.
My volunteer work has come full circle – I started as a volunteer and am currently a volunteer, but I was a staff member for 17 years in between! These days I provide foot exams to patients who have diabetes. Patients are often embarrassed by the idea of removing their shoes and socks so I can examine their feet. I try to put them at ease with a smile and a certain matter-of-factness, but in reality, I sense a deep sacredness in each encounter. It is a privilege to be of service to the patients of AFC.
Over the past 21 years, the work of the Clinic has inspired our whole family – in fact, all three of our children have volunteered or worked here at some point. And through AFC, we have all experienced what it means to truly care for people.
—Kate & Bob Wilson
