Volunteering as Joanie

For many years, I have volunteered, only in male mode, at a local non-profit free trade store. I have also been in as Joanie many times, and all the paid staff know me in both male and female mode. I am particularly chummy with one of the staffers, a woman named Deb. She and I conspired that we would work together on Dec 23, because we worked together last year and had a blast. She worked the register, and I wrapped presents. Not too long ago we were chatting about doing it again, and we decided I would do it as Joanie this year, so they made up a Joanie name tag in addition to my male one. Deb is enthusiastically supportive of Joanie.

Yesterday I got a text from the store manager that they could use some help today while there was only one paid staff member working. This time of year, they need volunteers to help with unpacking incoming merchandise, etc. I decide to go in as Joanie. I ended up mostly in the back room, unpacking boxes and putting pricing stickers on merchandise, but from time to time was around the public part of the store, greeting customers if the paid staff member was busy, etc. Anyway, it was fun and I got a lot of stuff unpacked.

Then, Deb comes into work, which I didn't know about, and she gushes over my outfit and confirms that we are indeed scheduled together on Dec 23. After a bunch of chatting I got her to take my picture in the store. All in all, a great 2-hour volunteer shift. I think I'll be volunteering as Joanie a lot more in the future.

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Good for you Joanie! I love that your co-workers are good with you and that you and Deb are working together on the 23rd.
Oh, and I think your picture is wonderful!

What a perfect synergy! Acceptance, fulfillment and helping the community all in one wonderful event. Good work Joanie. I suspect you will have a joyous Christmas season.

There is only one word needed.

Awesome!

Glad it went well and definitely continue going forward - must be very enjoyable!

What a nice story. People helping people and People accepting people. What is not to like. Hugs All, Meg

I volunteer at a local non-profit. They have a Halloween program where many people wear costumes of one kind or another. I would love to be there dressed in a Lolitta outfit. Unfortunately, that idea was shot down by my wife. Enjoy your days there en femme.

Joanie that is so cool, your outfit is perfect amd your looking great. (I'm so jealous I would love to do something like that)

Well done that girl!

Sounds like a great place to volunteer. I am so glad that you are free and comfortable with presenting either as Joanie or your male self, but understandably prefer the former!

Good for you, Joanie! :battingeyelashes: :thumbsup:


The way I look at all this, is people should try to do what they honestly believe is in their best interest.

Only way to really do it.


If I ever make it to retirement, I could see myself doing something along those lines, as well. :)


BTW, only 2 hours? :eek:

We're gonna have to get at least 3 or 4 out of you next time... :devil:

Elbee, they schedule volunteers in 2-hour blocks. I would work longer if they wanted :-). I will probably work 4 hours on Dec 23. (And I know you were just teasing). It is a great place to volunteer, the staff is great, and it's a good cause.

Years ago, I had an opportunity to volunteer at a commercial store. The manager was supportive when I went shopping there for girl clothes. I asked, she said yes, and I crossdressed and volunteered there on Halloween. She and the two female employees were very friendly and unconcerned about it. I was scared to death.

It was such a wonderful experience, and I would love to do it again! I assume that is how you are feeling, so I am happy for you! Congratulations.