Through the Eyes of a Volunteer: Robb’s Story

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. “Community is always important for me,” Robb noted. “[Volunteering] is a good way to meet people. Meet your neighbors, and know what’s going on.”

Robb first came to RVFB in September of 2021 after a call from a fellow PTA member offered him an opportunity to engage through his children’s school, Beacon Hill International, where he serves on the PTA and acts as the Parent Liason. 

Robb is among the volunteers who followed RVFB down Rainier Ave South during our recent move. He remembers his early visits to the food bank, packing out of our limited space at 4205. “In this space, I see more of the staff, even the office staff more too, whereas I think in the other place, I just saw Otis.” 

When he returns for his Wednesday shift every week, there’s one thing Robb looks forward to most, and it isn’t packing or delivering bags – though he’s happy to be involved in that. “[It’s] the laughter for me. The time goes by so fast. For me, it’s just the fun of the work. There’s never been a time where we aren’t laughing and dancing.”

The reciprocal nature of RVFB’s work has even filtered into Robb’s volunteer experience. While Robb and his team of volunteers from Beacon Hill International School’s only obligations are to pack bags for the families within their program, Robb admits it doesn’t end there. “It’s not like we just come in, do our thing, and bounce. It’s also making sure that if they’re short 12 bags [for other routes], there’s someone going back to make sure those bags get packed.”

For Robb, there isn’t just one favorite memory that comes to mind when thinking about RVFB. To him, the magic is simply in the work that occurs here. “My favorite, I think, is just seeing people come up knowing there’s going to be a meal provided. It just kind of grounds me in what we’re doing.” Robb also chuckled as he recalled a memory of getting his foot stuck in a pallet and laughing with other volunteers.

Robb’s experience at the food bank has also been an educational one. “My perception of what was donated has changed,” he confessed, sharing how he was pleasantly surprised to find items that he too purchases for his family from PCC at RVFB. 

When asked what anyone should know before volunteering, he offers a welcoming word of caution: “Come prepared to laugh and meet great people.”