LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – Many people start the New Year looking for a way to make a difference in their communities, but Meals on Wheels needs your help year-round.
Nicole Thomas, volunteer coordinator at Lubbock Meals on Wheels, said many organizations see an increase in help at the start of the year, but the increase in volunteers doesn’t always last.
“Always in the beginning of the year there are more volunteers, because it will be their resolution to volunteer, but as the year goes it kind of declines because it’s a time commitment and people have other stuff going on, so it’s not at the top of their list,” Thomas said. “So we’re always working on recruiting and getting more volunteers,” Thomas said.
She said the non-profit can always use the extra help, saying there are always people within the community in need.
“Our biggest need is always drivers, since we send out a thousand meals a day to over seventy-seven routes so that is just an ongoing need,” Thomas said. “But we also need people to help work in the kitchen or special events or work in the office or carry out coolers, but mostly drivers,” Thomas said.
Building community connections
Thomas said volunteering isn’t like a second job. She believes being a volunteer can open the door to new friendships and help make the community a better place for all.
“A lot of our volunteers come early and just hang out; there’s a sense of camaraderie and lifelong friendships are made here, it’s always a good time,” Thomas said. “It doesn’t feel like work, it just feels like it’s hanging out with your friends.”
She encourages everyone to give volunteering a try, saying just a few hours can go a long way toward helping change someone’s life.
“The volunteers are the heart and soul of Lubbock Meals on Wheels, without them none of this would be possible,” Thomas said.
To volunteer or for more information on Meals on Wheels, click here.
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