Vital Bridges Center on Chronic Care is home to one of the largest and most committed volunteer corps in Heartland Alliance. Some volunteers have served with Vital Bridges since its beginnings 25 years ago as Open Hand Chicago, and others joined as the organization grew and merged into Heartland Alliance Health. But no matter when they began, all of Vital Bridges’ 350+ volunteers share a dedication to the program’s mission: helping people throughout metropolitan Chicago impacted by HIV and AIDS build their health and improve their self-sufficiency.
One of those trusted Vital Bridges volunteers was Michael McGuire. Michael began his volunteer role with Vital Bridges ten years ago as a “shopper” at the North Side Grocery Land, fulfilling orders for the fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other foods for participants. But over time, Michael became the go-to volunteer for manning the front desk, explaining procedures, reviewing paperwork, and interacting with participants.
The participants who walk through Vital Bridges’ doors face struggles with their health, housing, and financial situations. Michael connected and empathized with all of them, but he also wasn’t afraid to employ tough love. To him, the pantry was a community and a family, and he took his role very seriously. Even with his fluctuating health, he always found time to chat with participants, fellow volunteers, and staff members, and he rarely missed any of his shifts. “Michael was very proud to be part of that elite corps of folks whose mission was service with compassion,” says Lori Cannon, Food Program Coordinator and co-founder of the grocery program.
On January 5, 2014, Michael passed away suddenly from a heart attack. The news came as shock to everyone, especially the volunteers who had served with Michael every Tuesday and Thursday for years. Participants were similarly shocked and saddened to hear about the loss. “He was a favorite amongst our clients, known for his humor and ‘take no prisoners’ approach. We’ve lost an important member of our family,” added Lori.
In honor of National Volunteer Month, Vital Bridges would like to honor Michael McGuire for his tireless and dedicated service to the program and everyone with whom he worked. Without volunteers like Michael, Vital Bridges would not succeed. Thank you for your service, Michael – you will be missed.