During Volunteer Appreciation Week, we shine a spotlight on the compassionate volunteers who make our work possible.
Our programs rely on volunteers who make service part of their lives, and Ted Coonfield is one of them. For more than a year, he’s come to Blanchet Farm each week, sharing his woodworking skills and gaining far more than he expected in return.
Ted Coonfield shows a resident of Blanchet Farm how to use a tool in the woodshop.
At the farm, that commitment helps create a space where hands-on work supports healing. In the woodshop, residents build skills, explore creativity, and find a sense of calm, with Ted as a steady presence alongside them.
“I’m here so people can learn skills, but woodworking can be a respite from life’s trials and tribulations,” Ted said. “Volunteering here has become a big part of my life. I think it’s the relationships with the gentlemen at the farm.”
The woodshop isn’t focused on mass production. It’s about creating a space where residents can learn, create, and build confidence without the pressure of a deadline.
“Many guys here are in repair,” Ted said. “I’ve developed a profound respect for them. It hurts sometimes when they relapse or leave.”
Ted recently brought a laser wood engraver into the shop. To his delight, several residents already had experience with the tool, and we’re excited to show him how to use it. Now they’re creating new items together, including custom dog portraits burned into wood, available at ShopBlanchet.org.
“We’ve been doing all kinds of fun projects,” he said.
Ted Coonfield teaches residents of Blanchet Farm how to make paella. Photo by Gabby Thuillier.
He’s brought other surprises beyond the woodshop, like hosting a chocolate-making class and cooking a large paella dinner outdoors for residents.
“Those are extraordinary times together,” Ted recalls. “I feel that I’m actually contributing, and I’m certain that I’m learning too.”
What started as a way to share a skill has become something deeper for Ted and our farm program. Thanks, Ted!
Ted Coonfield holds a table he custom-made for Blanchet House’s women’s shelter, Bethanie’s Room. He spotted a heart-shaped piece of wood while volunteering at Blanchet Farm and was inspired to do something special with it. Ted volunteers to teach woodworking to folks in recovery at our farm.
A few of Ted’s handcrafted wood pieces are available at ShopBlanchet.org, with all proceeds supporting the Blanchet Farm program.
