Kathy Says Volunteering ‘Is What I Love’

Since she started volunteering at The Helping Hand of Warren County, a Food Bank of Iowa partner, Kathy has donated 78 Tuesdays and counting to hunger relief.

When pantry guests arrive, Kathy introduces herself and provides any support needed. She and her fellow volunteers also help stock the pantry, making sure shelves are full.

“Everybody’s here to serve,” she said of the Tuesday volunteer crew. “I’ve learned a lot from them.”

Kathy has seen how quickly someone can lose food security. Especially for neighbors who work, she said, one missed paycheck or unexpected expense is all it takes.

“There’s a lot of need, and it’s not by choice,” she said.

“I knew this was a huge need in the community…I knew it in my mind, but I didn’t know it in my heart,” Kathy continued. A long-time monthly donor before she began donating annually through her IRA, Kathy now looks forward to Tuesdays, when she can see the impact of her dedicated donations and help Iowans face-to-face. 

“I would encourage people to (volunteer), just so they could really experience it,” she said.

If you feel called to join, we have a place for you! With our increasing volunteer capacity, our collective efforts can go even further.