April is National Volunteer Month! We are what our community chooses to do together, and none of our work would be possible without volunteers. We are so grateful for the time, support, and hard work from our selfless group of volunteers. Whether you joined as an individual, or “adopted” a Food Club or Community Kitchen shift as a corporate or church team, you power our work. Thank you!

Meet Sharon!

Sharon has volunteered with us since may of 2021! She was doing food rescue at 14th street and when they transitioned to Food Club she heard they needed guest services volunteers, and was able to be trained with our staff members. Overall she loves getting to know the guests and seeing them every week. Although it is not easy, she truly enjoys helping them work through the intake process, and hearing their personal stories; the stories gives a sense that what she is doing is truly making a difference. Sharon loves our mission and feels that she is truly part of the whole organization. She knew she wanted to volunteer her time after retiring and found a great fit here!

Meet Dave!

Dave has been volunteering at the Community Kitchen for almost 3 years! He began his volunteer journey as part of a group through an adult program, but recently began joining us two times each week on his own. Dave loves to work, and is really proud to be a Community Action House volunteer. One of Dave’s favorite volunteer moments was when he got to celebrate his birthday with the team and guests! Another volunteer played the song ‘Birthday’ by the Beatles, they turned down the lights, and celebrated with him. Dave said that continues to show up because he loves the food, everyone treats him with respect, and the atmosphere is great!

Meet Sandy!

In 2017, our Community Kitchen operated out of First United Methodist Church (FUMC). When Sandy moved to Holland that year, she quickly learned about our work after becoming a member at the church! When her women’s group volunteered at the Resale Store, Sandy was hooked - she quickly signed up to volunteer on her own, and has been part of our team for the past five years. Her main tasks include sorting through and straightening clothing, preparing items for the sales floor, or prepping items to help stock the clothing closet at our Refresh program! Sandy shared that she continues to volunteer because the staff make her feel welcomed and appreciated - the team works together, is full of gratitude, and is accommodating for everyone. If someone asked her why they should volunteer with us, it would be because the work at the Resale Store is critical to supporting our mission at Community Action House. Thank you, Sandy, for being part of the team!

Meet Vicki!

Vicki started volunteering for us in January of 2021. She moved from the old site to here, and was mesmerized by the space and the size, but notices how we are already outgrowing it! She thinks the Food Club is a beautiful concept and loves how there is a level of respect given to the guests. She also mentioned how she believes that they deserve to walk into a store and see beautiful displays, so she works to make our produce look pretty. The concept of having a choice is great too, there are many cultural set backs that come from traditional food pantry and we are able to give them autonomy. Vicki said that volunteering here brings her Joy, it makes her happy knowing that this impacts so many people that need it. Although she does not get to meet the guests, knowing and visualizing how many people are helped every day is amazing.

Meet Holly!

Meet Holly! Holly has been a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Volunteer for three years, and her wife is a volunteer at our Resale Store! She learned about Community Action House through another VITA Volunteer, and realized that she wanted to get involved. Holly lovesvolunteering with us because it gives her an opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life. She truly enjoys spending time with other volunteers and with guests. Holly shared about a volunteer moment that sticks with her - during VITA, she worked with a guest who had never filed for a homestead property tax credit. Together, they were able to file for the last three years, and unlock significant financial support for our guest! Thank you, Holly, for your hard work to support our neighbors through VITA!

Interested in becoming a volunteer? Learn more about the various roles available below!