“A friend who is co-founder of a local community center has commented, ‘the need is great’. I have come to understand that also means, the opportunity is great! Heart to Heart embodies that by coming alongside our neighbors and helping provide for some of their needs in truly meaningful ways. I am grateful to be part of an ongoing effort like this, that engages both our congregation and our community! And my new friends among the staff and volunteers are amazing!”
“I first learned about Heart to Heart food pantry as a teacher at Stevenson Elementary in Grandview Heights. The students were always excited about food drives and loved taking walking trips to visit the pantry. Once retired in 2021, I was able to commit to helping with the opening drive–thru on Tuesdays and/or Thursdays year-round. It is incredibly rewarding to interact with the individuals and families that visit the drive–thru in cars, trucks, vans, on bikes, and even on foot, knowing that they are going home with high quality food items. I always look forward to drive–thru mornings and spending time with generous volunteers, and hope that the customers depart knowing they are cared about and respected by our team. A huge thank you to Yohan for always remaining calm, positive, and organized, and to the drive–thru team that keeps the line moving with laughter and love. In a world where you can be anything, be kind.“
“I love Heart to Heart, have been volunteering here since 9th grade, and have had nothing but wonderful experiences. Every interaction I have had makes me so happy because I am able to truly see how I am helping others, and it is a feeling I love.”
“My mission is to have care and compassion for those in need, with a non-judgmental outlook. I am happy when I am helping other people. There are no strings attached to giving!”
We started volunteering at Heart to Heart through Ohio State’s Semester of Service program to connect more with the Columbus community. Though we have only been here a few short months, this opportunity has not only allowed us to gain a priceless experience but has also taught us invaluable lessons. The entire Heart to Heart community welcomed us ecstatically and quickly brought us in to their family consisting of staff, other volunteers, and the entirety of those who are served through this gracious mission. The time spent at Heart to Heart each week was time to look forward to. Connecting with others from different walks of life outside of our own university, that we have the privilege to attend, was refreshing and granted us a chance to view life from a new perspective. We would like to thank Yohan, Amy, all other volunteers, and the entire Heart to Heart community for guiding us through this inspiring and gratifying experience with an abundance of kindness.
Every time that I volunteer at Heart to Heart I feel more connected with myself, other volunteers, the Heart to Heart staff, and my community. I am thankful that I have the opportunity to give back and support my community in such a welcoming and joyous space. Many aspects of my life are placed hectically upon each other and feel very chaotic, but volunteering at Heart to Heart helps to keep me grounded and in the moment. Connecting and developing relationships with others through volunteering is wonderful and any chance that I have to serve at Heart to Heart is an opportunity that I will anticipate with happiness.
I am always impressed by the grace and dignity of our customers as they face hard times and have the courage to accept our help for the sake of their families. For me, volunteering at the pantry is a humbling experience that allows me to experience our common humanity. What a gift that is! People sometimes ask, “How did you of all people become Volunteer of the Month? I’m somewhat surprised that you haven’t been kicked out.” Relentless campaigning and insincere flattery probably helped. Upon reflection, though, the single most important factor is that I was the only person on my All-Star Pantry Team who had not been awarded Volunteer of the Month. As the emerging “class clown” on my team, I bring out the best in my teammates by constantly trying their patience and making their volunteer responsibilities that much more difficult to complete. No wonder I am Volunteer of the Month. Thank you, Yohan. You could have nominated the dangerous and unwieldy red cart instead.
“I really enjoyed volunteering at Heart to Heart. I had the opportunity to meet many wonderful people who always put a smile on my face. Helping others is a rewarding experience and something I’m extremely grateful for. I will never forget the kindness among all the people I met through volunteering at Heart to Heart. One thing I learned from volunteering at Heart to Heart is: kindness costs nothing, but means everything.”
“Volunteering at Heart to Heart has been an amazing experience and I am so grateful for the opportunity to give back to my community. I have met many incredible people through Heart to Heart that never fail to brighten my day. Putting a smile on the faces of those who we serve is something I will cherish forever.”
We started volunteering at Heart to Heart approximately a year ago. We’ve always been passionate about helping people with food insecurity, but it was difficult to find somewhere where our entire family could volunteer.
Heart to Heart’s Shop & Stock program was the perfect match for our family. Our two children, Alyssa and Riley, loved being able to “grocery shop” on their own, and we enjoyed working with a mixture of new people and core volunteers. We also enjoyed the flexibility of picking our volunteer shifts so it didn’t impact other family obligations.
In a few weeks, we’re moving to Florida, so unfortunately, we won’t be able to continue volunteering at Heart to Heart, but we encourage anyone who wants to help those in need to volunteer at Stock & Shop!
