September 30, 2024 | Volunteers
Erica, on the right, with other volunteers at the TEFAP warehouse.
In our Volunteer Spotlight series, we highlight dedicated individuals who devote their time and energy to help make a difference in their own community. In this interview, we shine a light on Erica, a volunteer in the CAPSC Food Pantry, and ask her a little bit about how she became involved with CAPSC, her thoughts on her experience, as well as the impact of her efforts.
We hope this interview will inspire others to give back to their communities and shed light on the vital role CAPSC volunteers play in creating positive change in the world.
So, without further ado, let’s jump into our conversation with Erica!
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background?
Erica: I am the Commercial Loan Administration Manager for both Newburyport and Pentucket Banks which are a division of River Run. I am also the Co-Chair for our volunteer and charitable group Spirit of Giving.
How did you first learn about CAPSC, and what was your initial impression of their services?
Erica: I first learned about CAPSC and the TEFAP (The Emergency Food Assistance Program)/ Food Pantry programs at a visit with 2023 Kid Governor, Haydin Simmons.
When and why did you decide to volunteer?
Erica: I met Silas Garcia and learned of the need for volunteers for TEFAP. I brought this back to our Spirit of Giving committee. We saw the need and decided we could help.
Which CAPSC program is closest to your heart, and why?
Erica: There are so many great programs at CAPSC, but the food pantry and TEFAP are closest to my heart. There is no reason in our country for people to be hungry. The TEFAP delivery which benefits so many local pantries is a physically demanding task, but knowing it helps so many people makes it worthwhile.
Unloading a delivery at the TEFAP warehouse.
What are some of the activities you have been involved in?
Erica: I have helped in the food pantry putting food bags together and with the TEFAP delivery in Brentwood and then to CAPSC locations in Dover and Rochester.
Which food pantry activity has been the most meaningful for you?
Erica: The large scale distribution of food to the various county pantries is a rewarding community affair. I also committed to the weekly collecting and recycling of cardboard due to the sheer volume of boxes generated at the food pantry, and saving them the problem of getting rid of it (in what would be a less environmental manner).
How does the agency support or encourage community volunteers?
Erica: Each time we have volunteered, the staff has been very helpful and supportive, making sure we knew exactly what needed to be done.
Were there any particular individuals or staff members at the agency who made a significant impact on your experience, and why?
Erica: We have worked with Silas more than anyone else at CAPSC. The amount of work he does with sometimes little resources is amazing. I admire his dedication to running the food assistance programs at CAPSC.
What role do you think community organizations and individuals can play in helping families?
Erica: When everyone helps a little, a little becomes a lot. Making sure that local organizations know specific things they can help with will go a long way in getting them done.
We thank the many members of our community who give their time, their skilled expertise, and their warm smiles in support of the programs at CAPSC. Whether you are interested in a one-time event, or want to find a recurring volunteer spot, our goal is to try to match our needs with your interests, and to grow our family of caring individuals who give so much back to their community. For more info, click here.
In 2021, CAPSC distributed nearly 387,000 pounds of food to approximately 8,000 Strafford County residents. Our food pantry locations in Dover and Rochester are open to the community, and our aim is to reduce malnutrition by providing access to nutritious food and supplies to anyone who walks through our doors. For more info, click here.
Community Action Partnership of Strafford County is a 501(c)(3) private nonprofit organization established under the provisions of the Equal Opportunity Act of 1964 and established in Strafford County in May of 1965.
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