This may seem a bit alarming to some, but it is entirely true.  April 15-21 is National Volunteer Week, and it is a great opportunity for us to praise the invaluable work our volunteers provide for Lakeview Pantry and those we serve.  Last year over 700 volunteers provided an amazing 22,000 hours--the equivalent of 11 full-time staffers!  To further put that into perspective, in 2003 Lakeview Pantry used only 60 volunteers.  It is estimated that every hour a volunteer gives is worth $22.77, which means our volunteers gave time worth $500,950!   Volunteers have allowed us to serve a growing demand both efficiently and effectively.

Six days a week, volunteers provide a wide variety of tasks to help us to carry out our mission--everything from delivering food to the home-bound to mopping floors.  Our volunteers live out the attitude, "whatever it takes!"

There is so much good our volunteers provide to the Pantry; it is comforting to think that volunteering may actually provide benefits to them!  Numerous studies provide strong evidence that volunteering offers both mental and physical health benefits up to and including, a longer life!  Volunteers at Lakeview Pantry also break down social barriers.  Our volunteers come from a wide variety of socioeconomic backgrounds and work side by side for a common goal: to help make a better life for their neighbor.   

Have I piqued your interest?  Learn more about volunteering, and join our team at Lakeview Pantry.

As we move into National Volunteer Week, I proudly thank all who have selflessly made time to help another only because they care.  It is a proud tradition in America and here at Lakeview Pantry!

Regards,

Gary

Executive Director

Lakeview Pantry