VEAP loves our volunteer corps of 3,000 people! In our Volunteer Spotlight series, we highlight their amazing work and dedication in advancing VEAP’s mission.

When did you get involved with VEAP? I am a relatively new volunteer (just started this year). I had actually done my orientation a year or so before but always found some silly reason not to sign up for that first shift; I think it was the fear of the unknown, “what is going to happen when I walk through that door?”

What volunteer roles do have with VEAP? What is your favorite? My volunteer roles with VEAP are mainly warehouse (sorting and packaging bulk food). In our current model I am mostly loading clients’ groceries into their vehicles, which is my favorite role (Sorry Joyce!). It provides the additional benefit of some personal interaction with our clients that I would not otherwise have working in the warehouse (my second favorite role).

What keeps you volunteering with VEAP? Having the opportunity to spend time each shift with my VEAP co-volunteers, VEAP staff, and the clients.

What makes volunteering meaningful for you? Wow, kind of a deep question! Never thought about that, I am just having fun. I guess if I had to pick something, I would hope that what I am doing makes a small difference in the clients’ lives.

What is your favorite memory of volunteering? I think it was my second or third shift when Jan took me on a tour of the facility. She took time out of her shift (and she is a very busy lady!) to show me around. She also showed me how to receive donations; she must have known I would be sticking around or why would she take the time to do so. She also kept saying “you gotta meet the boss” (Joyce – I had not worked with her yet). Well I did meet the boss and I try to sign up for shifts she is on, which is easy because she is always here!

What might someone be surprised to learn about you? That I am now a Tampa Bay Buccaneers fan: Brady and Gronk! (C’mon Courtney, I know you were surprised!)

What do you do when you aren’t volunteering? I work as a project manager for JLC Inc., a commercial general contractor based in Richfield.

What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering at VEAP? Give it a try, sign up for a few shifts and decide if it’s a good fit!

Are you ready to become a volunteer like Raymond? Sign up today!