Andrea Misel

Volunteer Highlight

Andrea’s no stranger to the medical field. She spent her entire career working inside operating rooms as an OR nurse. When she retired from Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist in 2013 she began looking for ways to volunteer in the community. She remembered the SECU Family House Executive Director, Kathy Carr, coming to speak to the OR nurses about the SECU Family House and it piqued her interest. Andrea has been volunteering at the Family House one day a week since 2014.

Her tasks have varied over the years. From being a front desk volunteer and fielding phone calls, to folding laundry and tidying up the kitchen, or writing thank you notes and condolence letters, Andrea brings her caring nature to all that she does. Her favorite part of the Family House is the people. She enjoys spending time with guests, hearing about their stories, and giving “folks the ability to unload.”

As a former nurse, Andrea realizes the importance of the concept of a Family House. “Hotels charges are expensive, and they lack the extra amenities of the Family House like home cooked meals, snacks, and transportation to the hospitals. But more importantly they lack the support and care from volunteers, staff, and other guests going through similar situations. “

We asked Andrea “What would you say to others who may be looking to volunteer?” Her reply? “You’ve got to!” She mentions there are a variety of ways to volunteer at the Family House, no matter your skill set or your schedule.