Monroe area has it in abundance

My wife Kathy and I have lived in the Monroe area since 1976, and have been involved in a number of community organizations. Since March, I have been a volunteer at the Sky Valley Food Bank. In October, in addition to volunteering, I became a member of the board of directors. Although we had contributed to the food bank in the past, this was my first hands-on experience.

As I began volunteering, I was immediately struck by the significant number of people who are going hungry in our community and the vital role the Sky Valley Food Bank plays in reducing hunger. Approximately 894 households with 3,525 individuals received food during November. In December, even more families received food, along with toys from our holiday toy bank.

In my opinion, the success of the Sky Valley Food Bank is the result of three main factors. The first is the hard work and dedication of the volunteers. About 45 volunteers at the food bank do a variety of jobs. These people work as truck drivers, in the business office, in the warehouse and in the distribution area. The volunteers range in age from teenagers to senior citizens. The common denominator of these people is their desire to help their neighbors in need. The second factor is the tremendous help and generous donations from the Monroe community. A record number of churches, businesses, clubs, schools, service organizations and individuals chose to help the Sky Valley Food Bank in 2003. The third factor is a well-run organization, headed by Julie Morris, our executive director, and a board of directors made up of individuals from our community. Although the board primarily focuses on business aspects and food bank policies, the members share the volunteers’ desire to help their neighbors.

Being able to be a part of an organization that helps people in our community in need has been a personally rewarding experience. It also reaffirms our decision to make Monroe our home.

Monroe