Before the pandemic, Gavin worked as a personal trainer. When gyms closed last year and he was stuck at home he went stir crazy. A friend invited him to volunteer at Second Harvest Food Bank. One three-hour shift turned into another and another. Volunteering became a social connection for Gavin and the more he understood the impact of his time on the community, the more he signed up to volunteer.
“I remember seeing a quote from Buzz Aldrin that says, ‘If we can conquer space we can conquer childhood hunger,’” recalls Gavin. “That sentiment resonates with me and inspires me to be part of this mission.”
Gavin recently sat down for a conversation about volunteering and investing in our community.
How important is the role of Second Harvest Food Bank in the community? Especially in the last year?
Absolutely vital. I didn’t understand the depth and breadth of food insecurity before. The fact that 1 in 5 kids in our community needs this kind of support, and their parents are skipping meals really gives you pause.
Why is it important to give back?
It permeates every aspect of your life. We are so much more together than we are apart. I feel blessed by helping others.
Subaru and its retailers are committed to giving back. They’ve donated 150 million meals to the Feeding America network of food banks. Did you know Subaru gives back like that?
No. That’s massive.
How does it make you feel that Subaru is a company that is dedicated to giving back to its communities?
It makes me feel connected to the company because they support my values. I like to make purchases that align with my values.
What does support from companies and the community mean to Second Harvest?
When I look up at the framed t-shirts in the meat sorting area, I ask myself, “How many of these companies have I supported?”
I realize I’m not in this fight alone. When companies donate funds and individuals donate their time, we are working together to fight hunger. This kind of support contributes to the strength of the community. It’s a beautiful thing.
What would you say to encourage someone to sign up to volunteer?
I’ll volunteer with you! It’s three hours, what do you have to lose?
Leave a Reply