Empowering Communities Through Collective Action
Paul E. recently used his Volunteer Time Off (VTO) to contribute to a remarkable cause: packing food for children in need worldwide. The objective was ambitious: to pack 10 million meal pouches in just one week. When he arrived for his shift, the count was already over 6 million. Surrounded by approximately 600 other volunteers, the potential to make a significant impact was evident – with capacity for 1,500 volunteers at a time.
During the shift, they collectively packed approximately 90,000 pouches, each containing six servings, totaling over half a million meals. His role, alongside an elderly friend using a walker, was to meticulously label each pouch with its expiration date. Working alongside high school volleyball players and one dedicated mom to ensure that every pouch was ready to go.
Despite the freezing temperatures, with a bone-chilling -5°F (-15°C) and a wind chill making it feel like -20°F (-30°C), the warmth of purpose kept us going. Adorned in hair nets, makeshift cold-weather gear, we pressed on.
"In the heart of freezing temperatures, amidst the chill, we found warmth in purpose. Side by side, from all walks of life, we labeled, packed, and pressed on. Each pouch, a promise of hope; each volunteer, a testament to the boundless potential of collective action.
In those moments, we didn't just pack meals; we packed compassion, resilience, and the unwavering belief that together, we can make a difference."
The diversity of volunteers was inspiring. Across the table from us, a group of individuals with Down's syndrome and others in wheelchairs worked diligently, demonstrating that there's a role for everyone to play in making a difference.
These meals aren't just staying local; they're shipped to numerous countries across Africa, South America, India, and Indonesia. With just two days left to reach the 10 million target, the pressure is on. Achieving this milestone would set a new record for the organization.
This event has become an annual tradition over the past decade, attracting school kids from neighboring communities, some traveling 50-100 miles by bus to lend a hand. Despite some setbacks due to the extreme cold, the dedication and enthusiasm remain unwavering. Paul’s VTO experience has left a lasting impression, reminding us of the power of collective action in addressing global challenges.
