Hunger is a silent epidemic, affecting nearly one in six Americans. Though we cannot tell who is hungry from the clothes people wear, the jobs they work, or the color of their skin, 49 million people in this country do not have access to enough food for an active and healthy life. Last year, the Food Bank of Yolo County, a member of Feeding America, distributed more than 2 million pounds of food to 70 food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters and other emergency food organizations. We would not be able to continue this critical work without the help of volunteers. As Food Bank Executive Director Jose Martinez notes, "Without the effort and time commitment we get from volunteers, our job would be more difficult and more expensive. Volunteers are a cherished and much appreciated part of the team in serving our community."Please join us in celebrating volunteers throughout this week by sharing your thoughts and favorite volunteer stories in our comments section below!
As of April 2010, I was a regularly scheduled volunteer for a little over 1 yr 2 months, I started out Monday through Friday 8am-5pm. After a few months I had to cut back volunteer hours to start classes at Woodland Community College. I mainly worked in the office as front desk receptionist, although I did spend a good while out in the field with our Moveable Market Program. I love coming to the Food Bank because of the simple fact that it is a great, rewarding feeling to get to know the different things that the Food Bank does each and everyday to help feed the hungry. I can definitely say that I have greatly benefited from my experience here in many ways such as; professionally, personally and also been helped when I hit hard times with food every now and again. It touches me deeply to have the opportunity to know & to work with all of the wonderful, kind-hearted, and compassionate people who make up the Food Bank staff as well as the volunteers. As of Dec. 3, 2009 I was hired on as a part time employee & I am thankful that the Food Bank gave me a chance to get back into the workforce. A lot of great learning and growing opportunities for me ever since I met the great people of the Food Bank of Yolo County!!
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