How did you become involved with the West Valley Food Pantry (WVFP)?

In the late 1990s, my temple, Kol Tikvah, began collecting food for the West Valley Food Pantry during the High Holidays. I first got involved by helping load bags onto the truck on Yom Kippur. In 2000, while serving as Social Action Vice President on the synagogue board, I delivered the food drive appeal, transported the donations, and helped sort them, an experience that ultimately led to my deeper involvement on the board.

What kinds of responsibilities and challenges are involved in your service work?

Of course, much of the work is centered on addressing food insecurity and providing social services. Some aspects of serving are administrative and operational, like taking meeting minutes, troubleshooting issues with electrical systems, electronics, building maintenance, or refrigeration. Other responsibilities are more complex, such as recruiting the right people to fill a wide range of roles, navigating persistent software challenges, and fundraising.

What have you found most rewarding about your experience with the Pantry?

For me, it’s the long term relationships which get formed among the people involved with the Pantry. It really is about the people. One of the most rewarding experiences was getting the new building done so that we could serve more people in our community.

How has being part of the Pantry changed your perspective?

Being a part of the Pantry has helped me be especially mindful of the contributions of the volunteers and staff. I try to take special care to recognize and support them, rather than focusing solely on my own to-do list.

What would you say to someone who is thinking about getting involved?

There are so many different ways you can help WVFP and they are all rewarding. Whether it’s interacting with clients, doing a food drive or fundraiser to support Pantry, or working behind the scenes in the warehouse or sorting food, there’s something for everyone. Volunteering at the Pantry will grow on you.

Please, tell us one thing about you that our readers would be surprised to learn.

My wife and I have gotten involved in ballroom dancing.

And finally, do you prefer sweet or savory snacks?   What is your favorite snack?

Since I have to watch my A1C, probably dry roasted salted nuts and trail mixes.