Finding Community – And Inspiration – At Wellspring

When Ruben and Elizabeth moved to Cape Ann from San Francisco, volunteering was one of the ways they chose to get to know their new community.

They began at Wellspring in 2023, first lending a hand in the gardens and with fundraising projects. A year later, they became volunteers in Wellspring’s English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program.

Today, both continue to support ESOL students, while Ruben also volunteers in Wellspring’s gardens.

“What strikes us most is how much Wellspring does – housing, education, career support – and how well it works with other organizations in town.”

For Ruben and Elizabeth, the experience has become as much about the people they’ve met as the work itself.

“When we go to ESOL class, we are honored and humbled to be with the students and teachers. These students have two or three jobs and still they make time in the evening for class. It’s very inspirational to be in the class with everyone.”

They especially enjoy seeing students around Gloucester and witnessing how hard they are working toward their goals. Elizabeth says she is continually inspired by their “hard work and perseverance.”

After long careers in philanthropy, giving back has always been important to the couple. They see volunteering as a way to put that value into action and to strengthen the community they now call home.

“We feel strongly that volunteering is an essential way for us to show up for those in our community who need support.”

Thank you Ruben and Elizabeth, for all you do for Wellspring.