Volunteer Spotlight: Charlene Geraci

Meet Charlene Geraci, one of Hope Bloom’s dedicated volunteers!

Karina, our Volunteer Coordinator, says, “Charlene is a committed volunteer at Hope Blooms. As a busy college student she chooses to cultivate joy through the gift of her time as an event lead. Her positivity and kindness brighten the day of those she is around!”

Volunteering with Hope Blooms since: January 2023

How did you first hear about Hope Blooms?
I heard about Hope Blooms through a volunteer event coordinated by Concordia College

Why do you choose to volunteer with Hope Blooms?
I was looking for a volunteer organization to dedicate my time too, and the mission of Hope Blooms, just trying to tell somewhat forgotten people or those in tough stages in life that they matter, stood out to me. Also, who doesn’t love making bouquets of flowers. The smell enough is wonderful.

What is your favorite flower and why?
Carnations just because I love how full they look, all the different colors they come in and I just think they’re so beautiful.

In what ways do you see Hope Blooms bringing value to our community?
Speaking from experience, there is always a value in feeling seen and feeling a sense of empathy in the midst of stress or loneliness. By donating flowers to those experiencing that sort of stage in life, Hope Blooms is allowing people to feel happy again, and there’s something so inherently good in that, and I’m proud to be a part of it.

Why is giving back in your community important to you?
I’ve lived in the FM area my whole life and it has served me so well as a place to grow up and set myself up for future success, and I know it’s because of the kind, wonderful people who live here. So, being able to spread joy to those in my community who have probably indirectly contributed to this place of growth is really awesome.

What’s your favorite way to spread joy and kindness?
Probably volunteering at Hope Blooms! Especially when I get to make bouquets, it’s the best!

Name one of the most joyful moments in your life.
Christmas at my Grandma’s house, with heavy snow falling outside, and everyone gathered around the Christmas tree.

When you’re not spreading joy with Hope Blooms, how do you spend your time?
Most of it is spent studying (I’m a pre-medicine student at Concordia), and if I’m not doing that, I’m either working or volunteering at Hope Blooms. On the once a month chance that I have some free time, I like to go out to eat or have a night in with friends.

Share a little about yourself and your family.
I’m a junior at Concordia College, and I’ve lived in Fargo basically my whole life. I’m the oldest out of my sisters, which I have two of. My amazing parents are from Chicago and the Philippines. One of my favorite things ever is ballet, as I started when I was 5 years old, and even taught it for about 3 years of my life.

What’s something that people would be surprised to find out about you?
I’m a beast at Just Dance, and I have at least 50 Just Dance dances memorized. My wedding one day will 100% consist of Just Dance songs just so I can know what to do with my body for every song.

Charlene in the Philippines on a two month trip this last summer!