Volunteer Spotlight: Meet Marilyn

by hungerintervention | Jul 25, 2024 | Blog, Volunteers | 0 comments

Our November 2023 Volunteer Spotlight Marilyn, has been volunteering with us since June 2023! Marilyn found out about HIP through a LinkedIn ad for board members and since then has helped out with mostly shelter meals but has also helped with Shelter Meals Prep and Serving.

Marilyn’s favorite part about working with HIP is the people who work there. She described them as “A nice diverse group of people who are selfless and driven.” she extended this description to not only staff but also all of our volunteers who help us through it all. On another note, Marilyn’s favorite memory so far was working with Shevrin in the Coyote North kitchen in summer 2023. The experience helped Marilyn see the flexibility of HIP through using AmeriCorps workers and expanding our summer programs.

The experience helped Marilyn see the flexibility of HIP through using AmeriCorps workers and expanding our summer programs. We would love to thank Marilyn and all the other volunteers for joining and helping the HIP family! If you want to be featured in our volunteer spotlight, sign up to volunteer with HIP!

As the first spotlight of the year, we would like to highlight Nick and his immeasurable contribution to our Senior Community Meal program! Nick has helped with check-in for meal service for about 8 years.

Nick found out about HIP through Jerry Berger, one of the founders of HIP, at his local church. What began as a new volunteering experience became a routine part of Nick’s life as a retiree. “Volunteering keeps me busy and is one way for me to socialize.”

As a front-facing volunteer, Nick’s unique position allows him to engage with the people around him as well as observe budding relationships grow. He likes seeing “how seniors grow in their [inter]actions with each other.” and appreciates the camaraderie he sees between HIP staff and volunteers. He also found a physical benefit by getting in some exercise while putting up and taking down tables.

We hope his story will inspire others to volunteer in their communities. In his own words: “Yes I would recommend volunteering at HIP for those that have the time, are looking for a way to help the community, or just need something to do while looking for a job. They could be like me, retired and need to keep busy.”

As a pivotal part of the Senior Meals crew, we are so happy to see Nick’s familiar face every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Thank you Nick for all that you do!