What's Cool With Our Clients: Barb & Janus C.

We’re thrilled to bring you another edition of What’s Cool With Our Clients. In this issue, we’re highlighting sisters Barb and Janus and the incredible volunteer work they’ve done — and continue to do — right here in Minnesota. This is an inspiring read for anyone who wants to make a difference in the world.

Told from Barb’s perspective, this piece focuses on their time spent volunteering at Alexandra House, a nonprofit committed to supporting victims of domestic and sexual violence. As their mission states, “The mission of Alexandra House is to empower victims of domestic and sexual violence, and inspire social change through education, support, and advocacy.” That mission not only resonates deeply with Barb’s values but also reflects her desire to lift others up—especially those facing unimaginable hardship.

After retiring in 2016, Barb knew she wanted to give back. Alexandra House was nearby, and its focus on women’s issues struck a chord. “Women’s issues have always been a priority for me, and I was impressed with the organization’s leadership,” Barb explained. “I interviewed them as much as they interviewed me.”

Barb began her volunteer journey in a small way— helping out in the kitchen. But her natural instincts for organization quickly revealed another area where she could make a difference. “I started small, helping in the kitchen but then saw a need to help organize their in-kind donations, along with their storage area,” she said. “With staffing changing, I have absorbed a more significant role in working with in-kind donors, coordinating donations, and managing shelter inventory. I help direct other volunteers and contribute to The Alexandra House monthly newsletter.”

Of course, this has never been a solo effort. Since 2018, Barb and Janus have teamed up each year to help with Alexandra House’s annual Hope Gala and have volunteered together from January through March. They plan auction baskets and “day-of” materials like game prizes, programs, and registration kits. They also return in the spring and fall to help rotate clothing inventory at the shelter—an important task, as Barb notes: “Alexandra House maintains an inventory of clothing for all genders and ages because some victims come with nothing—just the clothes they have on.”

Some moments stand out more than others. “The first time I saw a victim physically broken and damaged stays with me,” Barb shared. “Also, many women come in with their children, and it is heartbreaking to see the effects this has on them. Finally, I was very upset to see an older victim for the first time.”

Through her work, Barb has gained an honest view of the realities surrounding domestic and sexual violence. “Domestic and sexual violence is ugly and about control. It is a learned behavior both for the abuser and the abused, and it is hard to break the cycle. Children see the abuse and think it is ‘normal.’ Victims can become abusers themselves.

This is why it is so important to have Alexandra House—not only to be the first stop in the long journey to surviving but to help educate others that there is nothing normal about this violence.”

Despite the heavy realities they encounter, Barb and Janus have found joy and purpose in their work—especially in doing it together. “I am absolutely delighted to work with my sister. We have fun and laugh. I curate the auction items, and she makes the packages attractive to look at. We are besties, so it is another activity for us, now that we are both retired. It has also inspired Janus to find her own volunteering opportunity, which has resulted in resource sharing.”

Barb has also seen firsthand the moments of hope that make it all worth it. “When I see a victim change into a survivor, I have hope. When a person believes that they have value and deserve better, I have hope. When I see a survivor smile and have hope themself, it gives me hope.”

Looking ahead, there’s more to be excited about. While the Hope Gala remains a major annual event, Alexandra House recently launched a new initiative that pet lovers will appreciate. “This past January, Alexandra House started accepting victims with their pets. This is huge because abusers use pets for control, and many victims will not leave their situation for fear of what could happen. The bond with a pet can be very healing. The program is called Linus’s Pet Haven.” As of now, three of the shelter’s ten rooms have been converted to accommodate pets, with more expansion planned as funding becomes available.

For those considering volunteering but unsure of where to begin, Barb offers some wise words: “Why do you want to volunteer and what would you like to gain from volunteering? Keep in mind that not all volunteering is ‘fun.’ If you are gaining something from it, then that is the reward. However, if you are not getting something out of it, then it is a waste of everyone’s time. Pay attention to the nonprofit you want to volunteer for. Not all NPOs are managed well—operationally and/or financially. Do they have a volunteer coordinator, and do they know how to best utilize your skills? Make the time to be patient. Sometimes the best opportunities open when least expected.”

In a world that sometimes feels overwhelmed by darkness, it’s people like Barb and Janus who remind us that love, light, and community still thrive. Thank you both for the incredible work you’ve done at Alexandra House. You’re living proof that good people can and do make a difference.

To learn more about Alexandra House and the opportunities they provide, visit alexandrahouse.org.

Got a cool talent, hobby, or cause you’d love to share with our community? We want to hear about it! Email us at advice@leestoerzinger.com and you might be featured in a future edition. See you next time!

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