Interview with Volunteer Johnnie L. Schmeckpeper
LGBT News: What would you like the readers of the Center newsletter to know about you?
Johnnie: I am a very caring and compassionate individual who strongly believes that LGBTs must be given the same rights as all other Americans. There is a genuine lack of respect and dignity that LGBTs face in our society. Motivation and dedication, not persuasion, is the way I accomplish my goals in life. I have a wonderful partner whom I have been with for almost 7 1/2 years. We had a commitment ceremony on August 4th, 2007 in a quaint church chapel here in La Crosse. LGBTs cannot legally get married in the state of Wisconsin; however, they can still show their true love and desire to be life partners through a sacred event like a commitment ceremony. Also, we have a wonderful purebred yellow Labrador named Buster who we love to spoil!
LGBT News: How did you find the 7 Rivers LGBT Resource Center?
Johnnie: I had heard about it when it was located on Fifth Avenue; however, I did not take the opportunity to check out the new facility. I came across the Center by accident when I was walking down Pearl Street one May day this past summer. I stopped in to take a look around, and I talked to Connie. She was the AmeriCorp worker and center coordinator at the time. I just happened to be looking for another place to do some volunteer work, and I was impressed with her knowledge and professionalism along with the resources that the center had to offer.
LGBT News: What prompted you to volunteer to cover the summer hours at the Center?
Johnnie: Like I stated, I wanted to do more volunteer work. I wanted to be a part of a team that would make a positive influence in people's lives, and I was already well aware of the need to help out LGBTs who have been nothing more than a political play toy for almost the past eight years.
LGBT News: What do you enjoy the most about volunteering at the Center?
Johnnie: I love to help people. There may be only one person that calls or walks in the door while I'm volunteering. When I am finished talking with that individual, then I sincerely hope that I have helped that person walk towards the better path in life. For example, I had a 16 year old male who walked in one day, and he needed help finding a place to stay. I talked with him about his predicament, and I gave him some brochures specifically for individual youths who are in need of temporary housing and basic necessities assistance. I also gave him some pamphlets with 1-800 number contacts for emotional help and counseling referrals. I have also talked with patrons who just simply wanted someone to talk to. Being a LGBT can be very lonely for many people. I know, because I went through a protracted period of deep loneliness myself. Letting someone "bend your ear" for a little while can really lift their spirits, and they leave the center in a much happier mood.
LGBT News: Why should more of our readers volunteer at the Center?
Johnnie: I firmly believe that there are other caring and loving people out there who want to help other people out. A great place to do it is at the 7 Rivers Region LGBT Resource Center. The ever-growing volume of resources at the center coupled with the wonderful staff and board of directors offers a unique experience that inspires the need to expand upon the benefits that the Center has to offer. In addition to this question, I would like everyone to know that the Center is working on bringing in more up-to-date materials. There has been a desire from patrons for more pertinent information relating to what's happening now and what is in the works for the future for LGBTs, whether the point of interest is political, educational or a different subject. The center is always open to suggestions for activities as well. We are in the process of brainstorming to see what types of events the LGBT community would be interested in, and the best way for us to come up with a successful idea for a social gathering at the center or elsewhere is for our readers and customers to call or stop in to let us know what they have in mind!