“Volunteering feeds my soul”

By Published On: July 28th, 2020

When Vicki answered Marion Polk Food Share’s ad in the paper looking for volunteers years ago, she didn’t know it would lead to 6 years of service.  After retiring from a 30-year career working in nonprofits, the Food Share quickly became a second home.  She found an immediate connection to the Food Share mission.

“It felt so familiar, not because I’ve ever been without food, but more so because it felt like such a basic need, the need for food.”

Vicki started out assisting in the office with data input and various odd jobs.  She even took a class on how to operate a fork lift so she could lend a hand in the warehouse if needed.

But her real passion is helping with the Food Share’s annual events: Chefs’ Night Out and Farm to Table.  As any Food Share employee would attest, Vicki is indispensable.  Her heart and energy help contribute to the success of our events every year.  She prefers to be modest.

“I think they’re giving me more than I’m giving them. They’re giving me a purpose, a reason, a place, and I appreciate that. It feeds my soul.”

What keeps Vicki coming back are the hungry neighbors in our community.

“You work toward a goal and then [there is another one to replace it].   It’s just that it’s an all-encompassing effort, the need continues to be there.”

And the need has never been greater.  Please consider joining volunteers like Vicki by supporting Marion Polk Food Share today.  Every dollar donated provides 3 meals to a family in need: https://bit.ly/give_foodshare.