When the pandemic hit, Lisa and Amanda Vala increased their commitment to help keep Interfaith’s food shelf functioning. They realized many of the older volunteers were retreating and saw the increased need for volunteers. “The huge increase in food insecurity was one reason we continued to volunteer during the pandemic,” said Lisa.
Amanda is 27 years old and a long-term Interfaith Outreach volunteer who started at the food shelf back when it was in downtown Wayzata. Lisa’s weekly volunteering began after retiring from General Mills in 2019. Both enjoy being part of the Inventory Team on Monday mornings. Lisa’s husband Warren recently joined the team, so it is truly a family affair!
Amanda has a disability, autism, and sometimes sees the world through a different lens. “Hands down, Amanda’s favorite part of volunteering is throwing out expired or spoiled food. Every day is a contest to see who can find the oldest donated food item!”
Lisa likes that she is always busy when volunteering. She enjoys seeing the fruits of her labor, like a stocked refrigerator or beautiful rack of delicious bakery items.
Both Amanda and Lisa are motivated to help make the world a better place. Plus, “We are not very good at sitting still.”