Volunteer profile – meet Jade Trinh

Shopping, stocking, pricing and constantly adjusting displays is the dedicated work of Midway Village gift shop volunteer, Jade Trinh. Jade has been working in the gift shop only about six months, but has volunteered around Midway Pointe since 2014, when she moved in. 

 

Staying active and busy is important to Jade: “I do not like to stay at home all day,” she explains. Her neighbor used to do most of the gift shop work, but went on vacation and asked her to fill in. Her friend later became sick and needed assistance so Jade stepped in to help. 

 

Staying active comes easily with being a hard worker in the gift shop. Jade often goes to multiple different stores in a week to shop for the best prices. She displays exceptional energy and has a good eye for what will sell in the shop. Volunteering in this role helps Jade in other ways besides just keeping her busy. “I really like to buy new items in the shop and see if they will sell. It helps me learn and practice English when I am out shopping, and also when talking to customers about products they like,” she shares. 

 

Jade says she enjoys learning about new foods and items when residents request them. It also helps her become more familiar with American foods than she used to be. Jade ran an Asian Market for many years before she retired, and even then she loved trying new things and finding good prices for products. 

 

Jade’s dedication to others doesn’t stop outside of the gift shop. “Jade is always asking if she can help around the building or with other related tasks,” says Lindsay Becker, Midway Pointe Manager. In addition, she runs the monthly SWAP meet, where residents bring items they don’t need anymore and other residents come to shop for gently used items. 

 

“She is so upbeat and willing to do anything asked of her, and always with a smile. She is a joy to be around and a huge asset to our community,” Lindsay proudly shares. 

 

Jade’s secret reason for wanting to help others? Kindness. Jade explains, “A lot of people are kind to me here and have helped me in my life, and I like to do the same for others.”