Similar to most of the Food Shuttle’s mission-driven volunteers, Valeri P. recognizes how vulnerable her neighbors are to incidents or one missed paycheck, which can lead to food insecurity, and prioritizes her time to help. Valeri began volunteering regularly at the Food Shuttle after a mutual connection on NextDoor responded to her post seeking local volunteer opportunities. Through an initial conversation with Marc H., the previous Volunteer Services Manager, she was encouraged to start at the front desk of the Raleigh Warehouse, where she would answer phone calls and direct visitors and other volunteers. With her professional background in human resources, strong social skills, and incredible wit, she quickly secured a weekly volunteer shift supporting the front desk. Now, two years into her position, Valeri has logged 243 hours and seeks to donate even more of her time.
The Volunteer Services Team (VST) is beyond grateful to have such an amazing volunteer who not only understands the mission but also brings personality and humor to the office each shift! It can be said that a typical shift includes balancing the organization’s administrative needs and the antics reminiscent of a buddy film co-starring Emily O. on the VST. Warehouse visitors frequently bear witness to the many quips and banter between the two, admiring the friendship the staff aims to develop with their volunteers. Moreso, Valeri is a friend to all. Her kind nature serves as a magnet for everyone who calls and enters the warehouse. So much so, this light-hearted spirit often overflows to her volunteer counterpart, Cheryl H., who manages the afternoon shift.
Looking to the future, her wish is to see the Food Shuttle expand its capacity to serve additional counties south of Wake County and to provide more resources that address the smallest of barriers (i.e., access to can openers) to families. She notes, “It is heartbreaking to know that some of the emergency food boxes go to families that do not own a can opener to use the food that is given to them.” She is no stranger to the bonds of family, with four brothers and two sisters who regularly host family gatherings and proudly volunteer for organizations across Wake County. Her community clearly stands at the forefront of her priorities, evident in the commitment she devotes to the Food Shuttle and the role she models for her two children and grandbaby!
