This is your sign to grab a friend and go volunteer with them. You won’t regret it!
Charities2Love’s August volunteering event was on August 19th, 2023 at the Tarrant Area Food Bank in Fort Worth. I was extremely excited for the opportunity to volunteer there. I have volunteered at other food banks in the past, but never this one, in the town that I was born!
The original plan
My original plan was to go with just my family, and to meet the rest of the Charities2Love volunteers at the food bank in Fort Worth. In addition, we picked up a friend’s grandmother on the way. She shared that she had always wanted to volunteer at a food bank but had not had an opportunity to do so. She was excited to volunteer with us, which was so sweet.
The updated plan
I ended up inviting one of my friends at the last minute since she was meeting me in the area afterwards. This way we could start our day together earlier. Her excitement to attend and be there was the first clue that this was a great idea!
Introduction by the food bank
I really enjoyed how the food bank took time to explain who they are, the 13 counties they serve, and what exactly we would be doing before we dove into our assignment. Since our task for the day was sorting many pallets of boxed potatoes into 5 pound bags, my friend and I immediately went to get our gloves on and get situated.
Starting our shift
The two of us joined a table of other people from our group, and immediately knew we would have the best time. The atmosphere of the room was electric! As the upbeat music played overhead, our table and the one next to us even had a friendly competition going to see who could finish sorting their pallet of potatoes first!
Ending our shift
Afterward when we were all done, the food bank staff made sure to tell us how many bags we collectively created and how many meals we provided during our shift. It was incredible that in less than 3 hours, 30+ volunteers had packaged over 4,000 potatoes … a whopping 17,500 meals! Wow.
Serving with friends is special
Before this opportunity at the food bank, I had forgotten how much I enjoy volunteering with friends by my side. The last time I had done something like this with friends was in college. Since quality time and acts of service are my love languages, it felt so rewarding to serve the community while simultaneously forming an even deeper bond with an old friend.
We got to talk, reminisce, learn more about each other, and make memories all at the same time! The three hour shift passed by so quickly that I wanted to stay for another one.
Volunteering at the food bank is different every time
I was also reminded that one of my favorite parts about volunteering at a food bank is that you’ll be doing a different task every time you go. It’s never boring or repetitive. There’s always something to do, and there is always a role for everyone there, no matter your age.
Several generations can volunteer together
During our shift, the Charities2Love group of volunteers had everyone from ages 12 years old to 80 years old. The table with my 12 year old cousin and her two friends were having such a blast hanging out together while efficiently making their 5 pound bags! I am sure this day will become a cherished memory for them when they are older and look back on their middle school days.
Change the world and strengthen your bonds
So if you’re looking for a fun and meaningful weekend activity to do with a friend, family member, or significant other, I recommend volunteering at the Tarrant Area Food Bank or any food bank in your area. You can contribute to feeding those in need and enjoy time together while doing it. You’ll be glad you did! And so will your neighbors in need.
