have been a Shanti client since 1998, shortly after being diagnosed as HIV+. But, it was when I became a Shanti volunteer in February of 2003 that my life totally changed on many levels.   I began as a volunteer in the drop-in center. I very quickly began to understand that working with people living with HIV was where my heart and soul belonged. While many in society look on the homeless and marginally housed—the majority of the clients utilizing the center—as those to be feared and/or shunned, I felt privileged to sit and listen to the stories of these remarkable individuals. Stories of survival and loss, joy and grief, hope and despair. Even though both clients and staff were giving me positive feedback for the simple work I was doing, on a daily basis I would walk out of the drop-in center feeling like one of the luckiest people in the world—to this day, I know for a fact that I get more out of volunteering for Shanti than I could ever give in return.   Shortly afterwards I went through the Peer Support Volunteer Training. To say this weekend changed my life in all areas of my life, would be an understatement. I learned about myself, others, and life in general.   Now I am matched with a client, David, but I continue to volunteer at the drop-in center. The days I spend at the drop-in center, and with David, are days I am thankful for. Perhaps one day, if I am lucky enough, maybe I will be able to work full time with the wonderful staff at Shanti—until then, I will count myself one of the most fortunate people in the world to be surrounded by people for whom I have so much love and respect.   —Gene       CONTACT THIS CONTRIBUTOR