Recently, FUSION held its annual Volunteer Appreciation event.

FUSION, a South King County transitional housing program, currently operates 16 housing units that provide a safe, secure environment for homeless families as they work toward self-sufficiency.

The evening’s event was attended by over 75 volunteers at the home of Mike and Lorna Chrilia, residents of Federal Way. FUSION gave special recognition to Phil Wamba and Carl Buehring, who were chosen as the Volunteers of the Year. Wamba and Buehring were initially involved as founders of The Joseph Foundation transitional housing program, which began in 1993.

In 2009, the Joseph Foundation merged with FUSION. Both Wamba and Buehring became active members of FUSION’s Board of Directors while still maintaining their involvement in the maintenance, repair, and remodeling of the original Joseph Foundation homes.

The Volunteer Appreciation party also provided the opportunity to announce the new chairpersons for FUSION’s main fundraiser, The Annual Benefit Art Event. This event is held on the first Wednesday of August each year. Kelsey Kovach, Ali Ducich and Audrey Berglund will co-chair the event. This year marks FUSION’s 20th Anniversary, and Kovach, Ducich and Berglund are tirelessly working to host a memorable event while raising the funds needed to provide housing and support services to the homeless in our community.

Pictured: FUSION volunteers Kelsey Kovach, Ali Ducich and Audrey Berglund