Finding Purpose in Retirement: Mary Beth’s Volunteer Journey with Valerie’s House Charlotte County

When Mary Beth retired from running her custom picture framing business in Lee County, she knew she wanted her next chapter to involve working with children. What she didn’t know was how perfectly her path would align with Valerie’s House.

“I became aware of Valerie’s House through some of my customers who had personal experiences there,” Mary Beth explained. “When I was ready to volunteer, Valerie’s House had just opened in Punta Gorda—where I live. It worked out perfectly.”

Mary Beth joined the Charlotte County team in January and quickly discovered how meaningful the work would become.

Lessons From Volunteering

Mary Beth says her time with Valerie’s House has reminded her that grief touches everyone, no matter their age.

“Grief is universal—whether you’re four years old or 64. The kids are so much deeper and more thought-provoking than you ever realize,” she shared. “One minute it’s bubble gum and crayons, and the next they’ll say something that takes your breath away.”

Having experienced the loss of both parents, a sibling, and two nephews, Mary Beth understands grief on a personal level. But what encourages her most is seeing children’s resilience.
“It’s devastating as an adult, so to watch kids learn to cope and still find hope is inspiring,” she said.

Why Valerie’s House Matters in Charlotte County

For Mary Beth, Valerie’s House fills a critical gap in the community.
“Grief is something everyone will experience,” she said. “But for kids, it can make them feel like outsiders at school—life goes on for everyone else while they’re stuck in that moment. Valerie’s House gives them a place where they don’t feel alone.”

She recalls one child who, after losing a grandparent caregiver, was asked what they first thought when they heard the news.
“Their first thought was, ‘Where am I going to live?’” Mary Beth said. “That broke my heart. On top of grief, kids often carry worries most adults have never faced. Valerie’s House gives them space to share those burdens.”

Community Connection

Mary Beth has also helped strengthen community ties around the Punta Gorda home. As a member of the local garden club, she organized fellow members to donate and plant more than 50 plants around the building.
“It was really special,” she said. “They didn’t ask for anything—just, ‘What time and what can we bring?’ It shows how our community comes together to support these kids.”

A Message for Future Volunteers

When asked what she would tell someone considering volunteering, Mary Beth didn’t hesitate:
“Do it. You get as much out of it as the kids do—maybe even more. What struck me when I first visited Valerie’s House in Fort Myers was how many people came back to volunteer or work there after going through the program themselves. That says volumes about how powerful this place is.”

Join Mary Beth in Making a Difference

Valerie’s House Charlotte County continues to grow thanks to dedicated volunteers like Mary Beth. If you’re looking for a way to support grieving children and families in Punta Gorda and beyond, volunteering may be the most meaningful step you take.

👉 Learn more about how to get involved: valerieshouse.org/group-volunteers