Robert Clouston and Helen Morton: “Full of love and deep spirituality.”
You might think people who live in low-income housing would focus on themselves and the things they don’t have. But not Robert Clouston and Helen Morton. They’ve spent a huge amount of time serving others – 32,000 hours to be exact.
Bob (80) and Helen (82) have volunteered at Grandview Hospital for more than 20 years. Helen has spent 13,000 hours working in the hospital’s library and Bob’s 19,000 hours were split between delivering flowers to patients’ rooms and serving as a hospital greeter to help visitors get where they need to go.
Because Grand Place, the St. Mary Development Corporation apartment where Bob and Helen live, is right down the street from Grandview Hospital, Bob and Helen are often called when emergency volunteer help is needed. Grandview Hospital is one of many places the two serve others. They also prepare meals for the poor once per month and belong to the Craft Club that makes artistic crosses and other items to give to hospital patients.
“The people who live here have low incomes but they’re not poor – they’re full of love and deep spirituality,” said Maxine Brooks, manager of Grand Place.
Helen has lived at Grand Place for almost five years and Bob moved in two years ago.
“I like the atmosphere and the people,” said Bob. “They’re some of the best people in the world.”
“I like the faith people have here,” said Helen. “They’re cheerful even when they have health problems. They’re so friendly and spontaneous.”
One of the things that keeps Bob and Helen focused on the needs of others is a program called “JustFaith” that the two participated in. The aim of JustFaith Ministries is to enable people to develop a passion for justice and to express their passion in concrete acts of social ministry. In fact, Helen is so passionate about the program, she convinced Maxine Brooks to take it.
“We studied the five poorest areas in the World,” said Helen. “It makes you realize how blessed you are and teaches you to live simply.”
When asked why she spends so much time serving others, Helen doesn’t hesitate. “What would we do if we didn’t?” she said. “When you’re single, you automatically reach out.”
Helen Morton (left) and Robert Clouston (right) have volunteered for more than 32,000 hours at Grandview Hospital.
We work toward the day when
all residents of southwest Ohio -- especially the economically disadvantaged -- have a decent, affordable
place to live and become part of a thriving community.
