Meet one of our Volunteers

Meet Lorraine Brandes, volunteer at Ventures, a Retail Incubator of Washington CASH in Pioneer Square.

Throughout 50 years of retail experience, Lorraine has started, owned and operated countless boutiques and retail shops. She especially enjoys the start-up phase of retail and helping small boutiques get started, which is why Ventures was a perfect fit!

When Lorraine found the opportunity on Volunteer Match, Ventures was still in the beginning stages, and she jumped right in to help with cleaning parties, organizing, and preparing Ventures to open. With her unique expertise, she was a tremendous help to the Retail Incubator Managers. “She has been amazing, and is a great example of the professionalism and commitment of our volunteers,” said Miriam Works, one of the incubator managers.

Currently, Lorraine volunteers twice a week in Ventures, chatting with customers, selling product, and helping in countless other ways. “I love it” she said, “It’s fun talking with the customers about the mission of Washington CASH and the entrepreneurs, and helping to make sales that directly benefit the businesses.”

When asked what she would say to someone considering volunteering, she said, “Not only do you get to help each entrepreneur every day in growing their business, but you also get to be a part of the larger organization, and contribute to the mission of Washington CASH. It’s a wonderful place to volunteer!”