Celebrating Our Valued Volunteers

We often measure volunteer impact in terms of the number of hours or clients served, but in many cases the impact made by Interfaith volunteers is immeasurable.

To celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Month and National Volunteer Week (April 20-26), we are honoring members of our community who donate their time and talent to support Interfaith’s mission by recognizing how volunteers create a sense of belonging for clients. Here is what our staff had to say.

BRIDGING THE GAP
“Volunteers help bridge the gap between resources and people in need. Whether it’s through hands-on support, offering their expertise, or simply offering their time, volunteers allow us to extend our reach and better serve neighbors in need.”

CHANGING ROLES
“Several of our food shelf shoppers have become volunteers as they were looking for work. It’s very
inspiring to see people we serve immediately turn back around and serve others.”

LEARNING LANGUAGES, GIVING HUGS
“Our food shelf volunteers remember from week to week what is happening in our guests’ lives and get
excited to learn more. Many of our volunteers take the time to learn words in different languages, look
through family pictures, celebrate births and family accomplishments and listen intently to client hardship stories as well. Hugs and patience are given freely.”

BOOSTING CONFIDENCE
“Our volunteers have done some career coaching to help Employment Services clients see their experience and skills through the eyes of a hiring manager. It’s amazing to see what this external validation can do for the confidence of those who are feeling discouraged or believing they don’t have anything to offer an employer.”

Volunteers are at the heart of how Interfaith Outreach fulfills its mission. Thank you to the more than 1,300 volunteers who served in FY25!

Interested in joining our volunteer network? Learn more at iocp.org/volunteer.