October 16, 2003
CFD: Volunteer likes contributing to most basic service
Name: Marilyn Gregory
UW Job: Field Coordinator, Young Women’s Health Study, School of Social Work
Volunteer Activity: I am a member of the board for the University District Food Bank.
Organization’s main mission: The University District Food Bank is a community supported private nonprofit providing supplemental food, infant care items and referral information to low-income Northeast Seattle residents. We assist individuals and families living in the 98102, 98103, 98105, 98115, and 98125 zip code areas. Its mission is to alleviate hunger by providing food for families and individuals through a community of volunteers and resources.
How long a volunteer? I became a member of the board in May 2002.
Why this activity? Because I was asked. One of my colleagues in the School of Social Work had been on the board and he sent out an e-mail telling about openings on the board. I had previous board experience with my church, and there just isn’t a more basic service to provide than food for people. I admire the amazing service that the food bank provides with only 2.5 paid staff and about 100 active volunteers a week. There are so many tasks that need to be done in order to serve the 800 families who come to the food bank each week.
Satisfaction in volunteering? I have just been so blessed in my life. I came from a stable family who always had a warm house and plenty of food. I can’t even imagine some of the difficult and devastating circumstances that have fallen on the food bank clients. So, it’s satisfying to know that I am contributing to an organization that is helping to meet such a very basic need. I also have a 15-year-old daughter and I am pleased that she is having the exposure to the concept of being in service to others and sharing time and money with those less fortunate.
