April is National Volunteer Month!
Every day, our programs are powered by the dedication and generosity of incredible volunteers. Whether joining as an individual, or “adopting” a shift at Food Club or the Community Kitchen, volunteers help us build a stronger, healthier community.
Volunteer compassion makes it possible for neighbors to receive the healthy food, resource connection, and financial empowerment they need to thrive. We couldn’t do it without you—thank you for helping us nourish, equip, and empower our neighbors!
*One hour is independently estimated at a value of $33.49.
Interested in turning your Compassion into Action?
Our programs are growing, and we need more volunteers to show up for our neighbors!
Meet some of the volunteers who turned compassion into action this year!
Meet Jacqueline!
Jacqueline’s journey with us began when she became a Food Club member after moving to Holland with her family. During one of her shopping trips, she noticed we were looking for volunteers—and didn’t hesitate to sign up! Since then, Jacqueline has become a vital part of our team, serving as a volunteer cashier and lending her talents to events like CommunityFest this past fall.
One moment that stands out to Jacqueline is when she was helping a member at checkout. She explained how the Food Club’s point system works, and the guest was thrilled to discover how much more accessible fresh fruits and vegetables are here compared to a traditional grocery store.
For Jacqueline, volunteering is about more than just giving her time. “I always come back to volunteer because I feel the need to give back to the community, to help others, and I always feel welcome and appreciated,” she shares. We are so grateful for Jacqueline’s dedication to our mission and her spirit of generosity. Thank you, Jacqueline, for everything you do to nourish, equip, and empower our neighbors!
Meet Jan!
Jan is one of the dedicated volunteers at Refresh, our partnership program with First United Methodist Church of Holland! Jan learned about Refresh after she was recently widowed and had moved to downtown Holland. She was looking for a flexible, close-by way to give back to the community and came across Refresh! Through volunteering, Jan has truly enjoyed getting to know and care for those experiencing homelessness in the community.
One of Jan’s favorite moments as a volunteer was when a longtime guest, who struggles to interact with others, gave her a birthday card with a nice note. Jan has gotten to know the guests over the years, and it touches her heart when they notice if she isn’t there and share that they miss her! She continues to volunteer because it’s her way to give back, she loves working alongside other volunteers, and because of the connections she makes with guests. Thank you Jan, for being an expression of care for our neighbors!
Meet Jake!
When a caring neighbor brought Jake to the Community Kitchen for a meal, Jake found more than nourishment—he discovered a community and a purpose. Inspired by the warm welcome and kindness he was met with, Jake began volunteering that same day and has been a dedicated volunteer at the Kitchen since.
Having experienced many of the same barriers our neighbors face each day, he empathized deeply with those he served and was grateful for the opportunity to learn each neighbor’s name and story. Reflecting on his experience, he shared, “In order to help myself, I needed to start helping others.” This realization fueled Jake’s passion and commitment, and in 2024, Jake dedicated over 400 hours of service through Action House!
In November, Jake also began volunteering at our Food Club, eager to explore new ways to turn his compassion into action. While volunteering, Jake learned that he qualified for a Food Club membership and signed up right away, excited for the opportunity to have access to fresh, healthy foods. We’re so grateful for neighbors like Jake, who care so deeply for others, and who help build a stronger, healthier community!
Meet Thou!
Chanthou (Thou) has volunteered with Community Action House since Food Club opened in 2021. After retiring, she was looking for a way to help the community that had supported her so well, and decided to become a volunteer! Thou does a little bit of everything at Action House – from stocking the shelves in Food Club, to gleaning with Lakeshore Food Rescue, to serving at the Community Kitchen!
Not only is she involved with our programs, but she also volunteers with our partners at I AM Academy twice a week for their Mobile Food Pantry! At the end of the day, Chanthou loves to volunteer because she loves to help those who need a helping hand. She is grateful to be a part of Action House and values playing a part to help our community. Thank you, Thou, for the many ways you show up for our team and our guests!
Meet Paul!
Paul is one of our regular Resale Store Volunteers! Paul learned about Community Action House when he was looking for a place to donate household items. He learned more about Action House and discovered that our organizational values align with his own. Once Paul retired, he looked for a place to volunteer, and decided to dedicate his time at our original 14th Street location. After volunteering there for some time, he learned that we were looking for cashiers at the Resale Store!
Paul joined our Resale volunteer team, and has been a friendly face at our register ever since. One of Paul’s favorite moments was when a customer stopped by the store right before closing. She was looking for clothing for an interview, and was worried about finding the right outfit. The team decided to keep the store open late so that she could find what she needed. Paul continues to volunteer at Action House because he loves working with the staff, and has found a sense of community at the store. We’re grateful to have you on our team, Paul!
