According to Nonprofit Quarterly Magazine, the demographics of volunteers have changed over the last forty years. Specifically, volunteering has increased dramatically for certain age groups, particularly the oldest, aged sixty-five and over, and the youngest, aged sixteen to nineteen years old. At Nourish, we are fortunate to have 1,000 incredible volunteers of a variety of generations who regularly prove that caring about others has no age limit.
Kendal started volunteering at the Edgewood Food Bank two years ago when she was 16 years old because she wanted an extracurricular activity that would allow her to develop workplace skills before seeking a paying job. She takes on a variety of tasks, from assisting clients with their food, to stocking shelves, doing inventory, assisting with vendor transactions and answering phones.
However, she says what she enjoys most is making a difference in people’s lives, while they in turn make an impact on hers. “Volunteering at the food bank has inspired what I want to do with my life which is getting into social work. I’ve learned that I have a power with helping people in need and we need more people willing to help.”
But while volunteering can ignite one’s life passion, it can also help maintain one’s passion for life. Hazel, a volunteer at Nourish’s Food Bank at the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Tacoma is a prime example. At 101 years old, she is an inspiration to everyone she meets. “I’m closer to 101 and a half,” Hazel insisted. A member of Bethlehem Church, Hazel has been volunteering for about ten years. She enjoys connecting with the clients, impressively walking backwards along the aisle way as she helps people select food. She also grows her own tomatoes which she shares with others.
Join Kendal and Hazel and sign up to volunteer.