From Receiving Support to Giving Back: Mike’s Story

When Mike moved to Ellensburg 12 years ago, he was looking for a new place to call home. Living on a fixed disability income, he knew managing unexpected expenses could be difficult, but he had built a life in the community and remained in the same apartment for the past three years, sharing his home with his two cats.

His connection with HopeSource began after he called the City about overdue bills. They referred him to HopeSource, where he initially received energy assistance.

“I had never taken assistance before,” Mike said. “I felt like if I was taking from the community, I should be putting something back into it.”

When Mike later needed help with rent, HopeSource was able to provide rental assistance through a partnership with Central Washington Disability Resources. The support helped him maintain the housing stability he had worked so hard to establish.

But Mike didn't stop there. He began looking for ways to give back to the community that had supported him.

He volunteered to serve on an advisory committee for the Council on Aging and Long Term Care. He also began volunteering with Kittitas County Friends of Animals two days a week. Through his work with the Council on Aging and Long Term Care, he became involved with Dementia Friends, a program focused on raising awareness, improving attitudes toward people experiencing dementia, and building a more dementia-friendly community.

That connection led Mike to the Memory Café, where he began volunteering in April 2025. He is now helping explore opportunities to expand Memory Café programming to Cle Elum.

For Mike, volunteering has become a meaningful part of his life. He is able to contribute in ways that fit his abilities and interests, while helping people and organizations throughout his community.

“You helped me and I turned it all back towards the community,” Mike said.

Mike's story shows how support can create a ripple effect. A utility bill or rent payment may seem like a small intervention, but for someone living on a fixed income, that assistance can provide the stability needed to keep moving forward. And sometimes, the person receiving that support goes on to become someone who supports others.

Today, Mike continues to live in his Ellensburg home, care for his two cats, and fill his time with opportunities to serve his neighbors.

His experience is a reminder that everyone has something to contribute. Sometimes, all it takes is a little support to help someone find the opportunity to do it.