CLEVELAND — Inside the largest shelter in Ohio is a popular room. Dubbed "God's" computer lab, it's that important to the 300-plus men who stay at the shelter every night.
Men like Richard Morrow Senior use the computer lab daily.
He said he came to the Lutheran Metropolitan Ministry Men's Shelter two years ago for help after falling on tough times.
"I'm doing good," he said. "Most days I get up and my feet hit the floor and I'm off and running."
Like so many men at the shelter with him, the computer lab allows them to secure the life they're fighting to reclaim.
"Things integral to their getting out of here and into independence," said Lydia Bailey, volunteer coordinator at the shelter.
But there's a problem: The hours are spotty. The computer lab is only open to the men when a volunteer is present.
"I find this impactful because I can put a smile on somebody's face," said Bradley Zaborszki.
The shelter is desperate for more people like him. When Bradley's not working full time at a baseball academy, he spends time at the shelter.
He helps the guys with job applications, housing searches and just hangs out with them.
"I can let them know they're cared for and there are people out there thinking of them," said Bradley.
Lydia said the ideal volunteer is anyone with as little as a spare hour every week or month, and someone who is able to see the men as individuals - beyond the stereotypes.
"To treat that person like the human being they are," she said. "That's gold!"
Greater Cleveland Volunteers can help connect you to volunteer opportunities that match your time and passion.
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