Volunteer Spotlight: Janyne and Dennis Lowenberg
Since November 2022, Janyne and Dennis Lowenberg have been regular volunteers at Food Bank of Iowa, bringing energy, joy and dedication to every shift.
“This is my happy place,” Janyne said. “We love to help people, and if this is how we can help them… I know the need is there.”
Dennis agrees. “It really kind of makes our day to come here,” he said. “It’s been a fun get-together, as I see it. But it’s this giving in and out, over and over.”
The Lowenbergs bring energy and camaraderie to their shifts. “We get kind of competitive,” Dennis said. “We like to be the record breakers.”
They’ve also found meaning in seeing the impact firsthand. “We volunteer at other food pantries,” Dennis said. “We can see our product getting out there. I remember sorting this… It’s fun to see the full cycle.”
Their message to new volunteers is simple: connect and contribute. “Just get in and meet people,” Dennis said. “Don’t just come here, just shut up. Open up and talk with people.”
Janyne added, “We have a great time here. I love to laugh. And we laugh a lot here.”
Above all, the work is rewarding. “It just makes my heart happy that I know we can help,” Janyne said. “The people are so thankful.”