I remember the first day Tim came to CSS for his tour and volunteer orientation. He was polite, warm, and ready to jump into the adventure of volunteering. He had applied to serve in our Thrift Store, but I shared that we had a particular need for someone to temporarily cover a shift in our Open Table Sack Lunch Program.
I asked if he had any interest in helping distribute sack lunches to those who are hungry in our community. With a true volunteer spirit, Tim quickly agreed, saying he would help wherever he was most needed.
What was meant to be a temporary shift has turned into a weekly commitment, and a beautiful journey for both Tim and CSS. Tim is now the smiling face our clients see every Tuesday from 12–4 p.m. as they come in for a free sack lunch. He has built meaningful relationships with many of them—he knows their names, their stories, and greets them like dear friends. In doing so, Tim upholds the dignity of each person he encounters and brings Christ to those in need in our community.
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” — Mark 12:30–31
This is the true value of a volunteer. Not only do they assist with essential tasks, but they also serve as the hands and feet of Christ—loving each person they encounter.
This National Volunteer Week, we celebrate all of our volunteers who show up with open hearts and willing hands. Thank you for serving with compassion and dignity. Because of you, lives are touched, relationships are built, and HOPE in the Good Life is shared.
