I loved the community of the people I was working with. Both inside the organization with my co-workers and outside in the communities that they were able to help. The people in the non-profit sector are mission-driven meaning that they are striving to work against complex problems in a society in order to stop injustice, differences among people or just ongoing issues.
What I wish was different
I wish there was a bit more for me to do to do at times just with communications occurring and such. However, overall there was not much more I wish could be different because it was a very beneficial experience for me.
Advice
I would share the piece of advice to take a minute and understanding what difference you are making in the community. I was able to see the faces of the people who's lives I was helping because I was out and took time to just interact with them instead of just doing work.
Be the first to mark this as helpful
Emergency Mobile Food Distribution Team Member
April 2020 • Detroit, MI
What I liked
Fantastic outreach efforts to the community during the COVID-19 pandemic. Great feeling providing food to those in need.
What I wish was different
Advice
Be prepared to be on your feet all day and outside in the elements. There is also a lot of driving to and between sites.
Be the first to mark this as helpful
Temporary Worker
May - August 2020 • Detroit, MI
What I liked
I liked the people I worked with.
What I wish was different
I wish there had been a bit more organization.
Advice
Take time to get to know your co-workers and the people you are serving.
Be the first to mark this as helpful
Package/Sort Food
July 2019 • Warren, MI
What I liked
Worked in teams, fun environment
What I wish was different
The area the group of volunteers worked in was not large so there were times when it felt tight where volunteers package and sorted food. I wish the area could have been more open.
Advice
If you will be volunteering in a group size of 4 or more make sure after registering online to volunteer, to call ahead about a week in advance to confirm registration and advise Gleaners coordinator you will be with a group. The volunteer center will arrange a separate check in station upon your group arrival.
Be the first to mark this as helpful
Distribution Center Volunteer
July - August 2018 • Detroit, MI
What I liked
I enjoyed connecting with the other volunteers there as they made it a warm and inviting environment. Also, it is a great feeling at the end when they reveal the total amount of food we distributed as well as the number of people that it feeds.
What I wish was different
The days of the week that we could volunteer changed each week. A little inconvenient at times.
