Volunteer Spotlight: Maria's Journey of Giving Back

Every volunteer has a story. For Maria Santos, her journey with Free Full Hands began three years ago when she was looking for a way to give back to the community that had supported her family during a difficult time.

A Personal Connection

"When I was growing up, my family went through a rough patch. Organizations like Free Full Hands were there for us. Now that I'm in a position to help, I want to pay it forward," Maria shares.

Since joining our volunteer team, Maria has contributed over 500 hours of service, primarily working with our food distribution and youth mentorship programs.

Making an Impact

Maria's dedication hasn't gone unnoticed. She's become a team leader at our food drives, training new volunteers and ensuring operations run smoothly. Her warm demeanor puts families at ease, and her organizational skills keep our events on track.

"The best part is seeing the relief on a parent's face when they receive groceries for their family. It's a reminder that what we do matters." - Maria Santos

Beyond the Numbers

While the hours are impressive, Maria says the true reward is the connections she's made. "I've met the most amazing people—both fellow volunteers and the families we serve. We're all part of the same community, just at different points in our journeys."

Maria encourages anyone considering volunteering to take the leap: "You don't need special skills. You just need to show up with an open heart. The rest will follow."