Caption: Some of our volunteers enjoying their swag bags, fun company, and raffle prizes from the evening.
October 24, 2024- Our annual volunteer appreciation took place at the Church of the Redeemer, one of our founding churches, from 3:30 PM-5:30 PM. 100 of our packing, driving, and kitchen volunteers showed up to this awesome event. Guests began by checking in to recieve their swag bags which were filled with
Guests enjoyed music from SRQ ENTERTAINMENT’S talented piano player Benjamin who played a broad assortment of songs.
Gordon Food Services, Chicken Salad Chick, Detwiler’s, and Gold Coast Eagle, all provided delicious food for volunteers to nibble on while catching up with their friends.
Father Michael Hurst kicked off the event with a prayer and discussed the Church of the Redeemer’s involvement in our mission in the beginning. Executive Director, Rhonda Leiberick, shared the impact the volunteers had on the 2024 year. With two back to back hurricanes right before the event, the volunteers demonstrated through rain or shine they would be there for the clients…
“We almost canceled the event after Hurricane Milton hit our community. It did not feel right to celebrate while so many people were suffering. However, when we reopened on October 14, every single volunteer showed up to check in on our clients. Some even climbed down 12 flights of stairs.” –Rhonda Leiberick, Executive Director
We also were excited to do our first ever Volunteer Appreciation Raffle. Volunteers won prizes from many local organizations, including: