Val David has been a devoted volunteer at FROM for over a decade, going way back to when FROM was on Main Street. In 2015, her husband was diagnosed with terminal cancer. She used FROM’s medical equipment loan program to help care for him while continuing to volunteer. When her husband tragically passed from cancer in 2017, Val’s commitment to serving others never wavered. She used her grief as fuel to serve.

Years later, Val received her own terminal cancer diagnosis. Many would choose to step back, but she persists, bringing her unique spark and dedication to Treasures Thrift Store in areas like Christmas items, media, and games. Every day, she shows up despite her illness, embodying resilience and generosity.

Val inspires those around her, including her children, whom she brought to volunteer in the food pantry with her to learn compassion firsthand. She says bearing witness to service made quite an impact on her children’s lives. When asked what advice she would give someone considering volunteering, she says, “Like the Nike ad: Just do it. When you see the families we help and lives changing because someone cared, that is why I keep going. That is my reason for being here.”

She is a beautiful example that even when life is uncertain, strength, community, and kindness can fill up our spirit and carry us forward.

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!”

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.”