A Trip Down Memory Lane

At CRITI, volunteers often arrive through simple acts of generosity and stay because of meaningful connection. Few stories capture that truth better than Debie Michaels’, whose relationship with CRITI spans more than two decades and recently came full circle. Last Thursday, Debie was honored for her long-standing service, and shortly after, she shared an email that beautifully reflects how volunteering can grow, evolve, and root itself deeply in purpose.

Debie first encountered CRITI during a season of transition in her own life. What began as a donation quickly became something more, and eventually shaped years of service, leadership, and commitment. In her own words:

I was thinking back on how I started volunteering with CRITI and how ironic. I think it was 2001 (it was before your time) - when I was in between jobs and cleaning out closets and a friend of mine said there is this organization that is taking donations for a big thrift sale they are going to have at the Chattanooga Pavillion. So I went to donate - it was a semi truck parked in the old Pruitts grocery store lot on 153 & Hixson Pike. I asked what hours they were accepting donations & they said it varies depending on volunteers to be there. So I said I can volunteer to take a shift we packed the semi full & then I went on to help set up the thrift event (it was only a one day sale& CRITI didn't make enough to make it worth their while to do it again) Anyway the young lady who was the volunteer coordinator asked me if I wanted to teach Life Skills - so I went to a little training class & that is how I started.

From that first yes, Debie’s involvement grew. She moved from behind-the-scenes support to directly engaging with residents, sharing knowledge, encouragement, and stability through life skills classes. Her willingness to step in wherever help was needed became a hallmark of her service.

Years later, CRITI’s work evolved, and so did Debie’s role. When we opened our current thrift store, another donation opportunity brought her back once again.

Then you sent out an email about the current thrift store & again had some things to donate prior to the store opening & thought - do you need help & Heather said yes - so again - Thrift Store opportunities brought me full circle.

Today, Debie volunteers regularly in the thrift store, contributing to a space that directly fuels CRITI’s programs and supports women and children on their journey to stability.

I volunteer regularly on Tuesdays & really enjoy meeting & working with new "volunteer" friends & I'm trained on what to do in the store operation (ha learning something new!) & I truly enjoy it. Have a wonderful Christmas holiday.

Debie’s story is a powerful reminder that volunteering is rarely just about a single moment. It is about relationships built over time, skills shared generously, and a willingness to say yes when the opportunity arises. From a semi truck in a parking lot to a thriving thrift store decades later, her journey reflects the heart of CRITI’s volunteer community.

We are deeply grateful for Debie and for every volunteer whose story continues to unfold alongside ours.