Joe's journey with Project Open Hand began in the early 1990s, delivering meals to clients alongside friends. Later, he walked with his husband through the Tenderloin as they made deliveries together, a shared act of care that became part of their weekly rhythm.
In November 2019, Joe returned to Project Open Hand as a weekly kitchen volunteer. When COVID-19 hit, he stepped up even further, working double shifts every Thursday to help meet rising need in our community for our meals.
"The experiences at Project Open Hand have all been very fulfilling," Joe shares. "It's been a great place to be with people who think about others."
Joe's steady presence, generous spirit, and decades-long commitment reflect the heart of our mission, and the strength of the LGBTQ+ community that has shaped Project Open Hand since its founding.
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.