Each month we will feature a “Profile in Compassion” from a firewood bank to share inspiring stories of bank leaders, volunteers, or firewood recipients. This month we feature Herbert Stash, Executive Director and Founder of Warm Elders in Bluff, Utah. Please feel free to suggest the next one!
What is your occupation and background/relation within the community?
I’m the Executive Director for the Warm Elders Nonprofit Organization. Warm Elders is a Nonprofit Organization dedicated to distributing firewood to elders, veterans, and people in need on the Utah Side of the Navajo Reservation. I grew up in this area and have lived in the area for over 40 years.
What made you want to start your firewood bank?
For as long as we could remember, we would go out and get wood in the mountains for our family. 3-4 years ago, that tradition expanded to more family members. 3 years ago, a local neighbor reached out to us and asked if we could ask them for firewood also. After delivering that first load, we began to see the need by other elders. We were getting more and more requests for help. We, as a family, decided we had to take action.
What motivates your work? In what ways is this work meaningful for you?
The genuine gratitude and heartfelt appreciation we receive from our clients is the
driving force behind our work. Witnessing the smiles and reassurance on their faces,
knowing we’ve helped keep them warm during the colder months, fills us with a profound sense of purpose. Their appreciation reminds us that our efforts have a tangible, positive impact, ensuring no one is forgotten. This reciprocal connection with our clients is what truly fuels our motivation and inspires us to continue making a difference.
What do you find most satisfying about the work you are doing?
After a long day’s work at the wood site, we can’t help but think of those we’ve helped.
In our minds, we picture the elders’ grateful smiles as their burdens are eased. This
assures our efforts have made a difference. As we wrap up and head home, we feel a
sense of satisfaction. Knowing our work has brought comfort to the community gives us
a sense of purpose. It motivates us to keep going, despite the challenges.
What’s the hardest or most frustrating?
As our wood site expanded, we encountered several significant challenges, particularly with securing adequate funding to sustain our operations. With the rising demand for firewood, the resources needed to maintain daily activities increased significantly. This situation often leads to frustration and stress, especially as our personal vehicles begin
to wear down from the extra demands placed on them.
Moreover, we sometimes deal with clients who aren’t particularly appreciative, and some fail to adhere to the necessary procedures to qualify for firewood assistance. When this issue arises, we have to remind ourselves to be patient and remember why
we are doing to the work we do.
There are moments when the demand for firewood outstrips our ability to process it in a timely manner. Additionally, there are days when we lack volunteers to help saw or split wood, leaving the labor burden solely on our family. These ongoing challenges can be overwhelming and disheartening at times.
What's your favorite story related to firewood bank work?
During one of our initial deliveries to an elderly gentleman, we noticed him outside attempting to chop away at a final stump as we arrived at his home. After we unloaded the firewood, we could see the relief on his face. That particular delivery has always stuck with me.
What's a piece of advice/words of wisdom you have for other people working/volunteering at firewood banks?
As you immerse yourself in your work – whether sawing, splitting, loading firewood, or
lending a hand at a wood bank – never forget the profound impact you are making. In
that moment, you are not just performing a task; you are transforming a life.
Somewhere out there, someone is in need, and you have the incredible opportunity to
be the beacon of hope and support they are searching for. Embrace this chance to
make a difference!
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