Once a month, Jenn Williams, LCS Food Distribution Coordinator, prepares items to deliver to low-income senior living centers in Wilmington. Getting that many orders ready takes a whole afternoon. The best way to make it go faster and more fun - volunteers! On a late August afternoon, a group of five volunteers helped Jenn bag supplies for residents of Terry, Windsor, and Parkview apartments. This time, a mix of teenagers and retirees worked together.

High school seniors often need volunteer hours for the National Honor Society or graduation requirements. Hannah Carter, a rising senior from Wilmington Friends School, and Ellie Molter, a rising senior from Charter School of Wilmington, are no exception. 

Hannah has been volunteering with LCS since middle school. Wilmington Friends has an ongoing relationship with LCS, and their students regularly serve at our St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church pantry. Hannah started there and recently began coming to the LCS pantry on Baynard Boulevard. Ellie found out about LCS at a volunteer fair at school. She says, “I come here because it’s pretty fun. I typically come in on Fridays and whenever else I can help.”

Recent high school graduate, Avery Ruebush, came in with her mother, who is serving at LCS with the National Health Corps. She has some down time before starting classes with the University of Delaware, where she will participate with their Community Engagement Scholars Program. Finding out about a variety of service organizations will help her plan projects during her college career and beyond.

Robin Berry and Hester Oden came to LCS at another pivotal time in life - retirement. Robin found out about LCS when she brought a friend to apply for services. She mentioned to LCS volunteer coordinator Lyn Budd that she soon would be looking for things to do. Lyn knew how to help with that! Hester registered with a Delaware volunteer portal, and LCS called her with an invite to join us. Both women enjoy sharing their energy, skills, and compassion with LCS. 

This afternoon, Hester and Robin chatted as they headed out the door together. Ellie, Hannah, and Avery stayed half an hour after finishing their task to talk with each other and Jenn about generational differences in technology, family, and upcoming plans. We think you’ll find volunteering with LCS rewarding and fulfilling. To find out more, contact Lyn Budd at 302-654-8886, ext. 107.