George and Estella Lynch

George and Estella Lynch became volunteers with the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board in 2003 at the CSB’s Crossroads residential treatment program. Crossroads is an enhanced residential treatment program that provides services to adults with co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders. George and Estella’s efforts have contributed to individuals achieving successful recovery.

George helps residents and staff by driving residents to necessary errands and appointments. Getting to appointments without a personal vehicle can be very challenging, and missing appointments can delay services and assistance. George is not only a driver, but lends a caring ear and offers a word of support and/or reality that helps people move forward in resolving some of their issues. He is highly respected by the residents and staff at Crossroads. 

Estella, as a gardening volunteer, ensures that the greenhouse is maintained and teaches residents about gardening. Gardening can be stress relieving, and as residents gain confidence by learning new skills, they can feel a sense of pride and accomplishment as they grow plants from seeds.  Estella’s kindness, patience, caring, and nonjudgmental persona provides a safe environment for Crossroads residents to take a needed break from the challenges of their lives.

“[George and Estella’s] work over the past thirteen years at Crossroads has truly made a huge impact on the lives of those that they encountered,” said Pat Herrity, supervisor for Springfield District. “Whether it was driving, gardening, or just being there to listen and talk with the residents, their work did not go unnoticed.”