Meet Danielle, who began volunteering at Project Open Hand six years ago in March of 2020 at our San Francisco Grocery Center.
"It was just one day," she says, but after that, "I never wanted to say goodbye."
Each day, Project Open Hand produces over 2,500 meals and 200 bags of groceries for our clients. We count on volunteers like Danielle to make that happen.
In the back of our kitchen operations, there are rows and rows of tables where volunteers stand shoulder-to-shoulder, stuffing boxes full of fresh produce, whole grains, and lean protein. The boxes get packaged up and then carried out to thousands of clients throughout the Bay Area to help them to manage their critical health issues.
Danielle remembers being placed alongside another volunteer during her volunteer shift who told her that, "'With each bag, I like to put a bit of love in.'"
It was that little glimpse of kindness and passion for our mission that inspired Danielle to stay on as a long-time volunteer with the organization. "It's made me stay, and continue giving back to the community."
Thank You For Being the Heart of Project Open Hand
To every volunteer, whether you've been with us for 40 years or joined last week: Thank you! Your service is a gift. You help us uphold our values of dignity, inclusion, and compassion. You help us ensure that every person we serve receives not just a meal, but care. We hope you feel celebrated this month and every month.
Get Involved
If you've been thinking about volunteering, April is the perfect time to get involved. Whether you prefer kitchen work, grocery packing, client interaction, or event support, there's a role that fits your interests and schedule. Sign up for a volunteer shift and be part of an organization that nourishes our community with love. Visit www.openhand.org/volunteer to sign up today.