Not every volunteer at Second Harvest Food Bank can claim that they met their future wife while helping to feed the hungry. In 1988, I was introduced to Second Harvest through my employer Cypress Semiconductor, who I am still proudly with today. I volunteered because I wanted to give back to the community the best way I knew how in a hands-on way. After my first sort with the Food Bank, I quickly realized how rewarding it was and wanted to do more. I started coming on a regular basis and ended up being one of the first sort leaders in a matter of months.
A few years ago, I was serving as food sort leader when a woman came to volunteer who would change my life forever. We enjoyed each other’s company during that Saturday sort and discovered several mutual interests beyond volunteering. We soon realized that we had many shared values. After dating for a year, I found the courage to propose to her at dinner on the same day she completed the Boston marathon. But our story doesn’t end there. A few months ago, we welcomed our twins into the world, one boy and one girl. Their arrival has changed my world completely for the better.
I am so grateful to the Food Bank for giving me the opportunity to help others in need, and for providing a meaningful setting to meet wonderful people, like my wife. I’m proud that Cypress has taken a stand to end local hunger by donating the new warehouse space on North First Street in San Jose. Second Harvest Food Bank is a highly respected, top-notch charity. When I walk in the door, I’m greeted warmly and feel that it’s an honor to volunteer there.
Since my first volunteer experience at the Food Bank, I’ve changed in so many ways: personal satisfaction, a wife and partner and now a family. Get out there and try it yourself. You never know what will happen!
– Jack
