ORLANDO, Fla. — Whether it’s a hug, or help with finding services, a local Everyday Hero does it all. After retiring from her paid job, Shellie LaFontaine made a new career by volunteering at The Center Orlando. 

What You Need To Know

  • Shelly LaFontaine volunteers at The Center after working 25 years at Disney 

  • She helps people seeking a test for sexually transmitted diseases and provides products to protect from STDs 

“I’ve always done some sort of volunteer work, and I knew that in the current state of things in Florida right now, there was a need in the LGBTQ+ community for allies,” LaFontaine said.

Reality set in for LaFontaine about just how much volunteers are needed once she started at The Center.

“I didn’t realize how many people just needed someone, honestly, just to hug sometimes,” said LaFontaine, who retired from Disney last year after 25 years.

She’ll give that hug, with a dash of acceptance.

“I was raised in a family where there was a seat at the table for everyone,” LaFontaine said. “And I think my mantra probably is, if you have more than you need, build a longer table, not a higher fence.”

During her volunteer shifts, LaFontaine signs in people for testing for sexually transmitted diseases, offers people STD protection and demonstrates some of the vital products they offer, like Narcan.

Helping the LGBTQ+ community is something she takes seriously, and she’s not giving up because she wants to make a difference.

LaFontaine said many people don’t know about the services The Center offers. You can find out more on The Center's website.