|
A Message From Our Board Chair
I recently read a quote that said, “A person who feels appreciated will always do more than expected.” The pantry relies on all of our volunteer assistance, and we really appreciate their contributions. Later this month we will be hosting a volunteer appreciation reception to acknowledge our reliance on the people who make this organization run.
All of our Board members are volunteers, and they come from a variety of professional and non-professional backgrounds. We have CPA’s, Real Estate agents, people who do marketing and publicity, others with significant organizational and legal skills. Some of these leaders come from the original congregations that established the Pantry in 1983. Others are members of the community. All of them have huge hearts and care about their community.
The same can be said for those who pack each of the sacks of food that are given to our neighbors. There are others who manage food storage and inventory. Some of our food is ordered from a food wholesaler, and other products come from the LA Regional Food Bank. The procurement of these items is accomplished by a volunteer. Of course, we are required to have multiple forms of insurance, and yes, that is coordinated by volunteers.
When food items are delivered, they must be unloaded from trucks. We rely on volunteers for that as well. And those who are on the front lines of distributing food do so from a sense of generosity and a true desire to meet people where they are and to assist them with kindness and open hands.
A few weeks ago, we tried to make a literal count of how many people it takes to make the NHIFP function. We estimate that we have at least 60 names on our roster, and our fear is that we will accidentally leave someone out. And still, we want to acknowledge how indebted we are to those who offer themselves in this work of compassion.
Sincerely,
Louise Sloan Goben
Chair, Board of Directors
| 
