Today we’re spotlighting one of our volunteer receptionists, Lynne!
Lynne first learned of Food Banks Mississauga from a letter she received in her mailbox. Inspired by the stories she read, Lynne began her support by giving financially. In October 2017, she decided to continue to show her support through volunteering.
“Upon retiring, I made a commitment to myself to help others through volunteerism and already being familiar with the work Food Banks Mississauga was doing, it just made sense to reach out to see how I could help.”
Lynne began helping with warehouse administration and reception support. During her receptionist volunteer shifts, Lynne handles mail, phone calls and emails, and performs administrative tasks like preparing mailings and data entry. She sits at the front desk in our office and is the first face to welcome all visitors, volunteers, and folks looking for support.
Our volunteer team has nothing but praise for Lynne:
“Lynne is just all around wonderful! She is always willing to help, is dependable and a true pleasure to work with. Her welcoming personality is perfect for the front desk reception role!”
Lynne loves volunteering because she knows she is making an impact:
“However small that may be… each time I help a [food bank user] or assist a volunteer or staff member, I believe there is a knock on effect into the community.” Her favourite part is the people, “everyone (donors, volunteers, and staff) working together to provide a helping hand, and the smiles on clients faces.”
Volunteering at Food Banks Mississauga has also made a personal impact on Lynne’s life. “I’m more aware of my community’s vulnerability and its resilience.” When asked how volunteering makes her feel, Lynne says it gives her mixed emotions. “You hear some heartbreaking stories,” she says, “but there is nothing more fulfilling than seeing a smile on a [food bank user]’s face.”
One story in particular had a big impact on Lynne:
“A [food bank user] arrived at Food Banks Mississauga having only been in Canada 48 hours and had not had much to eat since he arrived. He walked 10 kms to the office in very hot, humid weather, arriving almost heat-stroked. The team helped me pull together some nourishing food items to hold him over until he could get to his neighbourhood food bank. The client was so grateful he asked if he could give me a hug.”
Lynne encourages others to volunteer by saying that it makes you “become more aware of your community and helping others in need.”
Become a Volunteer Receptionist
Inspired by Lynne and her role as a volunteer receptionist for Food Banks Mississauga? We’d love for you to join us by volunteering your time too! We are currently looking for more volunteer receptionists, so if you’re interested – apply today
