August’s Volunteer of the Month was nominated by our Food Rescue and Transportation Director, Jon Meinert! Read from his nomination:
“Jim is long overdue for Volunteer of the Month! He has been such an asset to Second Helpings and the communities we serve. Jim’s dedication to the mission of Second Helpings never wavered throughout the rollercoaster of the COVID-19 pandemic. Jim’s been a reliable mainstay, making sure meals are delivered to our community partners every Friday morning and afternoon.
Jim also helps our Food Rescue program by making pick-ups while delivering meals when necessary. His flexibility helps us operate as efficiently as possible and allows us to accomplish more by allocating resources elsewhere.
Jim, your cheerful outlook and reliability are key reasons why Second Helpings is so successful and will remain a constant in our community! I can always count on Jim to get our meals delivered effectively and efficiently. You do a wonderful job, thank you!”
Get to know Jim in his own words below.
How did you become involved in Second Helpings?
I was on a sailing trip in the British Virgin Islands shortly after I retired when a shipmate (Maria McGee) told me of a wonderful place that she worked as a volunteer.
What types of things have you done since you began volunteering with us?
I trained as a ride along and then became a driver. I have also done some food rescue.
What have you liked best about volunteering with us?
Right away I felt useful and needed here as “the Friday guy.” The volunteers and staff here are top notch people that always provide an uplifting positive vibe in the workplace. I love the threefold mission of Second Helpings. The environmental impact of food rescue is hugely important to me. Of course, helping community agencies feed their clients is very gratifying. Culinary training is icing on the cake and so beneficial to our community.
What are you most proud of accomplishing through your volunteer work here?
I am proud to have been a regular contributor throughout the pandemic as the world we service adapted to meet the mission.
What do you do when you’re not volunteering with us?
When I am not volunteering here, my wife Sharon and I love traveling, boating, hiking, and biking. I also am a bit of a bird nerd and enjoy my yard and feeders. We have four children and four grandchildren who are our favorite people to hang out with.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
People might be surprised to know that I have a black 57 Tbird and will gladly drive any vehicle with a gas pedal!