This week we are highlighting one of our long-time volunteers, Jo Manuel. Jo started volunteering at HCCM in 2011 and has logged over 6,500 hours volunteering!! (Currently the most hours on record!) The company she worked for had collected food donations for us over the years, so when she retired, she felt directed by God to “do something”, saw the need and joined our team!
Jo started helping on the Friday AM shift and now works 3 days a week in the pantry and one shift a week as case manager. She enjoys meeting new people and connecting with them. Jo has also helped us with many other projects, such as our Laces for Leander program. Though she enjoys the pantry, her most rewarding time is spent doing case management. She feels like you can really get to know our clients in this way, as you can have one-on-one time with them and see what people are really struggling with. She notes that many people are not aware of the resources that we have and are extremely grateful for all the different ways we can help.
Jo has noticed that the demand for food and other services has increased 100% since she began. She says it tugs on the heartstrings, especially when children and seniors are involved. Since she began, there have been lots of changes; all good & helping our community. She loves to tell others about HCCM, the many services we offer, the amazing thrift store, and how fulfilling it is to help here. She says, “You don’t realize the need until you start volunteering.”
We appreciate amazing volunteers like Jo, who have spent many hours and years helping our neighbors. Only God knows how many lives she has made a difference in over the years!
