August Volunteer Spotlight: Cheryl C.

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Cheryl Clark has been volunteering at FROM for more than a decade, closer to 12 years! After retiring from full-time work, a friend from church invited her to help with the Lunch Buddies program. That simple invitation led to years of meaningful involvement in FROM’s mission. Over the years, Cheryl has worn many hats, leading financial literacy classes, screening clients for what would become the Connections program, and supporting the Backpack and Christmas Store programs. Currently, she stocks the thrift store Farm Market on Mondays, pricing items, packing eggs, restocking coolers and shelves, and assisting with Mobile Pantry registration when needed.

“I came because of an invitation, but I stayed because I saw how many ways I could be involved,” Cheryl shares. “Volunteering has helped me form relationships with people in our community; clients and volunteers alike. We have so much in common, and I see many of them at the store, church, and around town. It makes me feel like I’m part of something wonderful.”

What keeps her coming back?

“I really like everyone here; there will always be a way for me to invest in the ministry and mission.” Her advice for new volunteers is simple but powerful: “Any gift or talent can be used here. It’s a great way to meet people, make friends, and invest in your community. And the thrift store is the best!”

Welcome to FROM, Brandon Augustine!

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FROM is excited to introduce our new Volunteer Coordinator, Brandon Augustine!

Brandon Augustine comes to FROM after spending nearly 12 years at Goodwill. With over 20 years of experience in retail, his time at Goodwill cemented his passion for nonprofit work. Brandon’s early experiences in the foster care system gave him a personal appreciation for the difference a caring community can make. That perspective fuels his commitment to helping others feel seen, supported, and empowered.

Outside of work, Brandon is a proud nerd and creative tinkerer. He’s a PC gamer (Halo is his go-to), a 3D printing enthusiast (ask about the skull pen cup), and an unapologetic dog person; his Anatolian/Great Pyrenees mix and Chihuahua rule the house. He loves cooking, camping (though his vintage camper is still a work in progress), and getting his hands dirty with car repairs or any new project that sparks his curiosity.

Whether it’s helping someone find their footing or figuring out how to fix a jammed printer, Brandon shows up ready to learn, build, and make life a little better for everyone.

Be sure to introduce yourself when you see him. Welcome, Brandon!

From Shopper to Volunteer: Jenny’s Story

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Jenny caught the “thrifting bug” when her kids were little. At first, she shopped just for children’s items, but soon she began looking for treasures for herself as well.

Now that she’s approaching an “empty nest,” Jenny started looking for more ways to give back. Having shopped at the FROM Thrift Store for years, volunteering there felt like a natural fit. She loves how FROM supports adults in a dignified and meaningful way.

In the summer of 2024, Jenny began running the cash register on Friday afternoons at the FROM Thrift Store. Still working full time as a math teacher, she appreciates the flexible schedule volunteering offers. “I can sign up week to week as I’m available,” Jenny says. “By Friday, I’m tired—physically and mentally—teaching takes a lot! I’m always amazed when I arrive [at the thrift store] because it’s energizing. That’s been a nice surprise!”

Jenny encourages anyone considering volunteering to give it a try. She finds it rewarding to know her time makes a difference. “In hindsight, I wish I would’ve started a couple summers ago,” she admits. “Even a little bit is worthwhile.”

Food Fight 2025: Congratulations Team South!

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That’s a wrap on Food Fight 2025!

The final results are in…
🏆 South Team takes the win with 95,894 points!
👏 North Team gave a strong fight with 64,760 points!

Congratulations, Team South!!

All together, we raised $150,961 and collected 9,693+ food items to support reliable access to nutritious food for everyone in Lowell.
A special shoutout to the Lowell Post Office for going above and beyond—collecting 6,293 items during their Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive, smashing their previous year’s record by over 1,100!

Another incredible year, with our always incredible community. THANK YOU!


Our friends from Lowell Post Office

Rookies

Red Barn Mercantile

Fish & Finn Outfitters

Ground Broken, Dreams Building!

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May 22nd, 2025, marked a monumental moment for our Lowell community. After years of dedicated planning and unwavering community support, we officially broke ground on FROM’s new affordable housing units right here in our city. This wasn’t just about construction – it was about creating hope and opportunity for families who deserve a safe, stable place to call home. We know that having secure housing changes everything: it gives children a consistent address for school, parents peace of mind, and families the foundation they need to thrive and build their futures. Every shovel of dirt turned represented countless hours of collaboration, advocacy, and belief in what’s possible when a community comes together. To every neighbor, supporter, and partner who made this vision a reality – THANK YOU.

Here’s to the families who will soon have keys in their hands and hope in their hearts. Home isn’t just four walls and a roof – it’s where dreams take root and families flourish.

From Boy Scout Project to FROM Rockstar: Meet Fulton Poelma

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Meet our rockstar Volunteer of the Month: Fulton Poelma. He’s been volunteering with FROM since August 2023, and you can usually find him making our spaces spick-and-span with a vacuum.

Fulton’s journey with FROM began after a meaningful project with his Boy Scouts troop sparked a desire to contribute to the community in even more ways. We think that’s pretty awesome!

When we asked him what FROM value he likes the most, he picked Community, saying it’s important “when everyone feels like they belong.” We totally agree!

Already a super helpful volunteer, Fulton’s also an 8th-grade track star! Keep up the great work, Fulton!

A Big FROM Welcome to Walter Jones!

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We’re thrilled to welcome Walter Jones as our new Program Manager at Flat River Outreach Ministries!

Walter comes to us with a background in pastoral ministry, residential behavioral health, and workforce development through Job Corps.
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Cornerstone University and is passionate about serving others with compassion and integrity.

Walter and his wife, Jazhmin, have three boys. In his free time, he enjoys the peace and quiet of fishing.


Walter will be taking Monica Light’s place as she plans to retire later in May 2025 after 6.5 years of service in the role.

We’re excited for the experience and heart Walter brings to FROM—please help us give him a warm welcome!

Sandy O: Healing and Giving Back

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Joining as a cashier in 2023, Sandy was drawn to FROM through recommendations from friends in a grief support group. She sought both to contribute and to find a sense of belonging.
Sandy appreciates the respectful and friendly atmosphere in Treasures Thrift Store, where both volunteers and those served feel valued. “I wanted to be part of a group with similar values, and FROM does just that….I am provided with a wonderful sense of community. It also feels good to give back to the community I have lived in since the early 90’s!”
Her favorite memories volunteering are centered on the relationships she’s formed. From being invited to join a book club to connecting with others who share similar life experiences, Sandy has experienced the transformative power in both healing and giving back.

Pat: The Medical Loan Sisterhood

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Pat Grooters found more than a volunteer opportunity at FROM; she found a sisterhood.
“All of FROM’s values fit the community; it is hard to pick one!” she says. However, one aspect particularly stood out: the welcoming and supportive environment within the Medical Loan program.

Pat has found deep connections, especially within her team. “The ladies in Medical Loan welcomed me into the fold, and now I feel like I have a sisterhood, one that I didn’t have before,” she says. “[They are] not only a sisterhood, but I feel like they truly care about my wellbeing.” For Pat, FROM is a place where connection, joy, and empowerment come to life.

A Lowell Treasure: Theresa’s Quarter-Century of Service

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Imagine a friendly face, always ready to lend a hand. That’s Theresa Mundt, a true gem of Lowell, who’s been brightening lives at FROM for 25 years. Since 1998, she’s been a steady force, making sure kids have clothes and seniors get their essentials.

Why does she do it? “I just love helping people,” she says, a simple answer that speaks volumes. She adds, “And I’m retired, so I have the time to give back!”

For Theresa, it’s all about community. She lights up talking about the folks she’s met, the old friends she’s reconnected with. “It’s the people,” she says, “that’s what makes it so special.” She treasures the feeling of belonging, of making a real difference right here in Lowell.

“Volunteering is so rewarding,” she shares. “It’s fun, too! You get to meet wonderful people and really feel like you’re making a difference.”

Her dedication reveals that the community thrives on connection and that even the smallest acts of kindness can create a lasting ripple effect.

Meet Debbie Bradley: Crafting Kindness in Lowell

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Debbie Bradley’s story at FROM started with a simple potluck and a neighborly nudge. In 2019, she found herself at FROM seeking assistance for her daughter, Kristin, and quickly discovered a community she wanted to be a part of. Now, you’ll find her happily crafting alongside Marilyn and Ellen.

“I just love what FROM does for Lowell,” Debbie says, her eyes lighting up. For her, it’s all about community. She remembers how Monica, FROM’s Program Manager, was a “guiding light” for Kristin, helping her find her own apartment and a job. And she smiles when she talks about Maureen, the cashier, who always makes Kristin feel seen and welcome.

Debbie’s journey is a reminder that sometimes, the best way to find community is to jump right in and lend a hand. And if you happen to see her, ask her about her favorite color – it’s a lovely sage green!