High school student Liza started volunteering with her parents at Rainier Valley Food Bank in the early stages of the pandemic. Little did she know she would start volunteering by herself and assist our guests as our organization transitioned to a new location and back to in-person shopping.  

A perfect fit for the fast-paced environment in the distribution center, Lavender is always quick to step in and lend a hand. From passing out fresh produce to making sure everything is running smoothly, she plays an important role in helping feed our community.

As a dietician, Alanna understands the power food has on communities. “I like to think of food as a central part of my life in particular, but I’d like it to be that way for others because I know it's important for a lot of cultures. Food is what brings everything together.”

A former teacher and former nurse – Joyce and Randy, are the dream team that have created an entire community network within the food bank. Their go-to delivery device, Randy’s Prius with a vibrant flame painted on the side, has left as much of an impression as their service to the community over the past two years.

For some, the connection to community and the opportunity to build bonds is more than enough to entice them to give their time. Passionate about healthy food and serving her community, Renee first became involved two years ago, at the onset of the pandemic, when she and her friend Maggie signed up to be delivery drivers.

For volunteers like Robb, showing up and packing bags is all about checking in with chosen family and being active within his community – something he remembers his parents instilled in him early on.

As a stay-at-home dad, Adam has made community service a priority.  “It's hard to explain because it seems so obvious. To me just that it's important to help out the community, right? Adam says, “it’s just something to help make life more livable, and that makes life better for everyone in my estimation.”

LA is undoubtedly one of our most well-known volunteers at RVFB, and if you ask our staff, he's definitely a part of our family. From filling our space with vibrant music, breaking down cardboard, and helping with our Grocery Rescue Program, LA jumps in wherever he can to help, saying hi to friends along the way and welcoming newcomers.

Hao first came to RVFB when his grandmother, Chi Lai, told his mother that he should volunteer to practice his English. Chi Lai and her husband came to the US as refugees when the South Vietnam Government collapsed. In 2014, Hao, Vy and their mother emigrated from Vietnam to join their father and grandparents in Seattle.

Shelly started volunteering at the food bank in early 2015. She came in once a week to help out with data entry, and always had a friendly story to tell. Shelly is new to running but she decided this year to run the Seattle Half Marathon and raise money for the Rainier Valley Food Bank. Running this distance and fundraising are two things she has never done before. By her own admission, it makes her nervous but she is determined to succeed!

Sally Teodoro, originally from Manila, Philippines, volunteers weekly as a line host, coordinating our waiting process and greeting folks as they enter to receive food. She knows just how to keep our waiting area organized and in order with kindness and humor!

This month we would like to highlight one of our interns from Seattle Central College: Jesse Rowher! Jesse has been interning at Rainier Valley Food Bank for the last 9 months, and has made a tremendous impact in improving our training methods for new volunteers, solidifying roles on distribution days, creating an express bag system, and integrating Kaizen into our distribution day operations to improve our efficiency. Moreover, he has seamlessly integrated himself into our community, and is a joy to watch interact with our food guests. Thank you, Jesse, for being awesome.

This month we would like to highlight Willieetta Smith! Willie first came to RVFB 11 months ago and has been gracing us with her presence ever since. The kindness and patience that she brings on distribution days truly help create a hospitable environment for every guest that she greets. We appreciate how Willie is always optimistic, and always willing to help where needed. Thanks Willie, for sharing your beautiful smile with all of us!

Meet Lou! Lou has been volunteering at RVFB for 2 years. His humble and positive nature embodies the environment we are trying to create at the food bank. And for the last few weeks he has been transforming the back wall of our distribution room into an artistic masterpiece! With some chalk and a black wall, he has inserted a vibrant country landscape into our food bank.

Jeanée Natov, AmeriCorps VISTA at Rainier Valley Food Bank shares a family favorite, Stroganoff. For a complete list of ingredients, check out this Seattle Times recipe.

Hey Casundra! Why do you volunteer at RVFB? “Rainier Valley is my community! We are so blessed with opportunity, it’s important give back.” Casundra’s personal quirk? “I love ALL people in this world!” We love you too, Casundra! Thanks for being a fabulous volunteer.

Felicia has been working in human & social services for more than 20 years! She also just hit her one year anniversary as a RVFB volunteer!

Meet Brook! “Food is life, health and peace on earth. Rainier Valley Food Bank is a pillar in my community and its a great opportunity to meet folks from all over the world!” Thanks Brook, we’re so happy to have you!

Meet Kathy! This amazing lady has been with us for over 15 years! Kathy does everything from stocking our shelves to organizing our home delivery program. She literally does everthing! Kathy’s personal quirk? She was once a professional dart player. She’s definitely a Jill of all trades and we’re so lucky to have her!

Why does Zach volunteer? “I want to be sure other people can feel secure within their food situation. Food is our medicine and it’s ridiculous that anyone should have to worry about getting something so basic.” We totally agree Zach!