National Volunteer Month allows us to show our gratitude for our volunteers and their tireless commitment to our community members struggling with food insecurity.
During this special month, we enjoy highlighting the individuals who give their time and talents to fight hunger locally each and every day.
Last year, the Foodbank hosted nearly 11,000 volunteers who donated more than 66,000 hours of service, the equivalent of 31 full-time employees.
Eileen is one of nearly 150 dedicated individuals who has already earned her Very Important Volunteer (VIV) status this year. To earn this recognition, a VIV must visit the Foodbank at least five times in a calendar year. Although they only make up a small portion of annual volunteers, VIVs account for nearly 50 percent of all service hours completed at the Foodbank.
A retired friend introduced Eileen to the Foodbank after she was laid off. She began volunteering in 2017 and has been visiting the volunteer center 2-4 times per month ever since! Eileen enjoys the convenience and flexibility of volunteer opportunities at the Foodbank, but even more so, she loves being a part of the Foodbank family.
“There’s a great sense of community here. Everyone knows your name and you become a part of the team. You’re helping the greater good.”
Eileen especially enjoys seeing students and children earning their service hours by sorting and inspecting donations. She believes it’s important for them to see that many families in the community are confronted with hunger on a daily basis. She encourages her own daughter and son to give back as well.
In addition to their work at the Foodbank, Eileen and her children participate in Buddy Up Tennis, a local program that pairs volunteers with adults and children with Down syndrome to keep them active and thriving. She also recently started substitute teaching for her local school district.
We are very lucky to have such caring volunteers like Eileen and her family. To our volunteers, thank you for being such integral members of our Foodbank family! We appreciate all you do!