Celebrating Our Volunteers

Volunteers like Jean Stormann, who first joined Pay Away at a Citi Trends back-to-school payoff event in Cranston, RI, last year, are a driving force behind our mission to inspire hope and spread kindness.

“I went into that first event feeling really excited to have an opportunity to give back to my community, but to be able to see the joy and relief in a parent’s face when you’re able to tell them that their child’s back-to-school items are completely paid off was just amazing. I couldn’t wait to help again and have been a part of two Pay Away payoff events since.”

Jean is one of hundreds of individuals nationwide that give their time and talents in support of Pay Away’s mission to inspire hope and spread kindness. In recognition of their efforts, this National Volunteer Week, we’re joining the movement to highlight the incredibly important role that our volunteers–and others around the country–play in tackling some of society’s greatest challenges and building stronger communities.

Volunteers have been a part of Pay Away from the beginning. With their signature red and green shirts, individuals like Stormann wear many hats in helping our organization to make a difference for as many as possible.

From helping us to identify the needs in their community, to working with store associates to organize and distribute bags of merchandise, to greeting special guests, to delivering the news to community members that their layaway balances have been paid off, our volunteers do it all. It’s not uncommon that their contributions are met with tears of joy and hugs–and for good reason.

“I would tell someone that is thinking of volunteering with Pay Away that there is no better feeling than seeing the joy, relief and excitement at a Pay Away event. I know that I’m making a tangible impact, and showing the importance of supporting those in our community to my children as well,” said Stormann.

Today and every day, we want to express our gratitude to the hundreds of volunteers that selflessly give their time in support of our mission. If you’re interested in learning more about how you can do the same, please reach out to us over email at info@payaway.org.




Uniting for Good: Your Role in the Power of Kindness Movement

As we stand on the threshold of GivingTuesday, our hearts are brimming with gratitude for the journey we've shared together. With the “Power of Kindness" as our guiding star, we've come together as a community to celebrate the magic of compassion and generosity. Today, we're taking a moment to reflect on your role – the heart and soul of this movement.

Champions of Kindness: You Make the Difference

Throughout this campaign, we've witnessed the incredible impact that the “Power of Kindness" can have. From the heartwarming stories you've read to the inspiration you've ignited within your circles, your participation has been nothing short of remarkable. It's your belief in the potential of kindness that has brought us here, and it's your unwavering support that propels us forward.

Creating Connection, Fostering Change

As we look ahead to GivingTuesday, we want you to know that you are at the heart of everything we do. Your support has made it possible to spread kindness, create joy, and make a difference in the lives of countless families. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to the larger tapestry of goodness we're weaving together.

A Promise for the Future

As we eagerly countdown the last few days until GivingTuesday, we invite you to reflect on the journey we've shared. Let your heart swell with pride at the stories you've helped bring to life and the lives you've touched. While GivingTuesday is a momentous day, our movement is not confined to a single day – it's a promise to continue embracing kindness, compassion, and the spirit of giving.

Your involvement, whether through sharing stories, making donations, or spreading awareness, has brought us to this pivotal moment. Together, let's embrace the anticipation of GivingTuesday and the incredible impact we're poised to create.

Thank you for being the heartbeat of this movement. Let's make GivingTuesday a day to remember, fueled by the power of our shared kindness.