1. Blog
  2. A Warm Welcome at United Way Asheville Buncombe County

A Warm Welcome at United Way Asheville Buncombe County

At United Way Asheville Buncombe County (UWABC), the front desk isn’t just a place to check in—it’s the heartbeat of our welcoming atmosphere. And at the center of it all is Cindy, whose warm smile and helpful nature set the tone for everyone who walks through the doors. Cindy understands that the front desk is more than just a reception area; it’s a first impression, a space where people should feel at ease, whether they’re visiting for a meeting, seeking resources, or looking to get involved.

“The most important part about being the front desk at UWABC is to be patient with people because they come in all sorts of moods. People want to tell their story and be heard with compassion. It’s also very important to understand what resources are available.” Cindy shares.

Image
Cindy of our front desk

She knows that people need her special skills—being patient, offering support, and creating a welcoming space. To ensure she can direct people to the right resources, Cindy has compiled a 4-inch book filled with information on available services since Hurricane Helene. Each month, with the help of volunteers, she calls every organization to confirm the resources they offer, ensuring up-to-date information for those in need.

“People want to be heard and know that the other person is really listening,” Cindy says. Her attentiveness, patience, and deep knowledge of UWABC’s work make her an essential part of the team. Whether it’s answering questions, offering a kind word, or connecting people with the right staff member, Cindy helps make UWABC a place where everyone belongs.

A Meaningful Connection: Cindy and Hudson

In early January, Cindy had the pleasure of meeting Hudson O'Connell and his mother, Mrs. O’Connell. Hudson, who has been diagnosed with high-functioning autism (HFA), is the second individual with autism to sign up to volunteer with UWABC through Hands On. Cindy had no prior knowledge of Hudson’s condition until he arrived, but she quickly formed a meaningful bond with him and his mother.

“Mrs. O’Connell pulled me aside and asked if I was comfortable with her leaving Hudson alone for his shift,” Cindy recalls. “I responded, ‘Of course, I should be fine as long as he listens and doesn’t wander off.’ She reassured me that he wouldn’t run off but might come to me a hundred times if he didn’t understand something. She added, ‘He is very fond of you and likes coming here.’”

Image
Cindy works to train a front desk volunteer.

 

Hudson worked diligently, starting with cleaning before moving on to help fill community giveaway bags. Even as he worked upstairs with the Center for Participatory Change, he frequently checked back in with Cindy, worried about leaving her alone at the front desk. “I assured him I was fine and could not leave my post,” Cindy says with a smile..

Cindy has worked with other volunteers on the autism spectrum as well. A previous volunteer, who was nonverbal, came with his behavioral therapist. Cindy assigned him the task of cutting recycled paper into scratch-pad-sized sheets. “Periodically during the shift, I could hear him screaming in the mailroom,” Cindy recalls. When she checked in, the therapist reassured her, ‘We’re great. He’s very excited to be here; that’s why he makes these sounds.’”

“I am grateful to say we offer a safe and comfortable environment where all our volunteers can thrive. A true honor,” Cindy reflects.

The Mailman Who Brightens Our Day

It’s not just staff and volunteers who feel the warmth of UWABC—it’s everyone who steps through the doors, including the mailman. Cindy’s connection with the UWABC mail carrier is a perfect example of how she fosters relationships in every interaction.

Her kindness and attention toward the mailman stems from her childhood—her father worked in the postal service for years. So when the UWABC mail carrier would arrive occasionally, looking hot and overworked, Cindy would offer him water, coffee, or a soda. Over time, their interactions grew. She asked about his life, and he asked about hers. She welcomed him into the office, showing him the gratitude wall and introducing him to team members.

On his birthday, Cindy passed around a card for the entire office to sign and gifted him cookies. Now, on the rare days, Cindy isn’t at the front desk, the mailman asks about her, making sure she’s doing well.

This small but meaningful relationship speaks volumes about Cindy’s impact at UWABC. Whether it’s a volunteer finding their confidence, a visitor feeling at ease, or a mail carrier feeling valued, the culture of care at UWABC makes all the difference. Cindy is just one team member at UWABC who proves that a welcoming environment isn’t just about open doors – it’s about open hearts.