Volunteer Spotlight: John & Luann
- Jun 30
- 2 min read
Volunteer Facilitators
For cousin-in-laws John and Luann, volunteering at Erin’s House is more than giving back. It’s a shared commitment rooted in service, personal loss, and the belief that no one should grieve alone.
Luann began volunteering in 2014 after stepping in as a House Parent for a friend. After that night, she shared, "I immediately knew I wanted to be part of this program." Just months later, after the death of her brother, that connection became even more meaningful and she stepped into the role of Volunteer Facilitator guiding conversations and leading activities in program groups. Over the 16 years of volunteering, she has witnessed many powerful moments when participants realize they are not alone in what they are feeling, forming bonds that turn grief into connection. Through her experience, she identified someone who could also make a meaningful impact in this role.
After a 34-year career with the Fort Wayne Fire Department, Luann knew John’s caring heart and lifelong dedication to his community would make him a wonderful male role model for the youth at Erin’s House.
Encouraged by Luann, John joined the volunteer training class in fall of 2025 following the death of both of his sisters within just two years. While his career had prepared him to help others in many ways, the training became a meaningful turning point. He learned how to be more present, how to be a better listener, and how powerful simply showing up can be. “If there was just one kid that I could help out and let know that they had a safe place with us in the midst of their grief, it would be worth it,” he shared.
John now serves as a Volunteer Facilitator in the Erin’s House Classroom Companions program in local schools, supporting students as they navigate grief. Together, he and Luann embody what it means to step outside your comfort zone and into something truly impactful. As John puts it, “Just do it!”
If you’ve ever considered getting involved, this is your sign. Take the step, get out of your comfort zone, and become a Volunteer Facilitator at Erin's House! Learn more at ErinsHouse.org/volunteer
