Second Helpings’ Volunteer of the Month for March 2021 is David Penoff!
David has been a consistent force in the Food Rescue Department over the last two years. He has been here every Tuesday since the start of the pandemic in March of 2020 rain or shine. David has helped deliver 3,200 meals to our partners at Urban League every week like clockwork. His energy and positivity are met with open arms by our staff, volunteers, partners, and donors!
“That saying energy matches energy could not be truer,” says Jon Meinert, Director of Food Rescue & Transportation. “I have watched this infectious characteristic rub off on others and turn their morning or day around on a dime. David and his wife Julie are heavily involved at Greenwood United Methodist Church where they produce and distribute community meals. We are very grateful for David’s service and energy. Our Second Helpings community is better with you as a part of it.”
To help everyone get to know David, Michelle Woodruff, our Manager of Volunteer Services, sat down to (virtually) interview him and learn about his volunteer experience:
How did you become involved with Second Helpings?
I was fortunate to be able to listen to a presentation that Statia Murphy made to my church’s women’s group several years ago. Statia got me excited about the mission of Second Helpings and I decided to volunteer.
What types of things have you done since you began volunteering with Second Helpings?
Mostly Food Rescue and for the last few months delivering meals to the Indianapolis Urban League every Tuesday. I have also helped with several special events.
What have you liked best about volunteering at Second Helpings?
The thing that has impressed me the most is that everyone involved with Second Helpings seems to have a passion for helping others. It makes me enjoy and look forward to volunteering. I also like how well-organized everything seems to be on a daily basis.
What are you most proud of accomplishing through your volunteer work here?
Helping to deliver 3,200 meals every Tuesday to the Indianapolis Urban League has been one of the most rewarding things I have been involved with at Second Helpings. The people at the Urban League are appreciative and thankful and the impact they and these meals are having on the community is significant.
What do you do when you’re not volunteering?
I continue to work as a lender to businesses and cities in the Midwest and I help out as a Cantor and occasional dishwasher at my church.
Do you volunteer for any other organizations?
I have been a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) since 2010. I work primarily with teenage boys and young men that are in foster care. I serve as their voice with the court system and Department of Child Services and help them get and stay on track with their lives.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
Prior to getting married and starting a family I sang in a professional Opera company.