The Orange Heart
Powered by Volunteers. Driven by Compassion.
“Volunteers come for the mission and stay for the friends they’ve made.” – David Bayer
Welcome to The Orange Heart!
Food Share’s Volunteer Newsletter
We tell everyone that our Food Share volunteers are the heart of everything we do—and we mean it! That’s why we’ve named this newsletter The Orange Heart. At Food Share, the orange heart in our logo is what we call the Jewel. It is named after our founder, Jewel Pedi, whose vision and compassion sparked a movement to ensure no one in Ventura County goes hungry.
Today, the Jewel reminds us daily of her legacy — a symbol of love, care, and community at the heart of everything we do. It is a tribute to your compassion, commitment, and the vital role you play in feeding Ventura County.
Each month, The Orange Heart will deliver a fresh bite, serving stories, updates, and opportunities designed just for you.
We are so grateful to have you on this journey with us—and we hope The Orange Heart reminds you just how valued you are.
Here’s what to expect in each issue:
What’s Fresh at Food Share
Stay updated on new programs, staff news, and behind-the-scenes happenings at Food Share.
New Ways to Help
Explore new volunteer opportunities and upcoming special events where your help is needed most.
Your Impact at a Glance
See how your hours add up to real change with stats on volunteer time and the number of people served.
Spotlight on Service
Meet our Volunteers for the Quarter and get inspired by their dedication.
A Note from the Heart
Read a first-hand story from someone whose life has been changed because of your support.
Mark Your Calendar!
Don’t miss upcoming events like CAN-Tree, Tour and Treats, Food for Thought, and other ways to get involved.
Volunteer Impact
Volunteers
Volunteer Hours
Meals is equal to 1 volunteer hour!
The Lives That You
Touch
“It’s hard to ask for help—so I’m thankful when help shows up.”
At 73, Pat has lived a full life marked by service, survival, and resilience. We met him recently at our College Park drive-thru food distribution in Oxnard, where he shared a bit of his story.
A divorced veteran, living alone in a modest one-bedroom apartment in Port Hueneme, Pat carefully budgets every dollar of his $2,295 monthly Social Security check. After rent, Medigap insurance, and Medicare premiums, he’s left with just $141 to cover all other expenses—including food.
“I last ate in a restaurant—even fast food—in 2009,” he told us. “I’m not a criminal or a magician, so I’m glad I have some investment income. But even with that, Food Share has really helped offset grocery inflation.”
Despite his gratitude, Pat admits he struggles with the stigma of receiving help.
“I grew up on a farm, one of seven kids. Both of my parents worked civil service jobs, and they would’ve gone to bed hungry before accepting assistance. Back then, food was always around — but money wasn’t. I have mixed feelings about receiving help. But I’m grateful for the important work you’re doing—and that you’re here.”
Pat, Kentucky, 1972 draft lottery #078, 1st Armored Division, EKU grad, CPA
We’re grateful for Pat – for his service, strength, and for reminding us that dignity and need can coexist—and that no one should have to go hungry.
What’s Fresh at Food Share
Welcome, Baby Jackson!
Congratulations to Jessica and the Hug Family on the arrival of Jackson Ralph Hug, born Friday, June 20 — 8.1 lbs and 20.5 inches of pure joy!
Congrats, Lupita!
Join us in celebrating Lupita Rodriguez on her promotion to Community Engagement Assistant Manager—well deserved!
Annual Report
Ever wonder how we feed 250,000 people a year? Check out our FY 23/24 Annual Report for the full story.
Spotlight on Service!
“I volunteer because… It’s a good thing to do; it’s helping others.”
— Elaine Melton
“I love volunteering at Food Share because… Its an amazing organization. There is such a need and I feel I can help in a small way.”
— Laurel Flack
“I love volunteering because… It fills such a great need in our county.”
— Lonnie Davenport
“Food Share is such a worthy cause & the amount of people that say Thank you when they pick up food at College Park each Wednesday does my heart good!”
— Julie Castro
Volunteer Highlight
The Trade Desk Packed:
- 2,640 bags of USDA shelf-stable food
- 1,200 Kitchen-Free Bags
- 480 boxes of Senior Kits
Other Ways to Help
Bread Route Drivers and Helpers needed
Early morning shifts (7 AM to 09:30 AM) on various routes. For more info please contact Laura at lthomson@foodshare.com
Mark Your Calendar!
Join us for Food For Thought Breakfast & Tour on November 13, 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM.
Join us for breakfast (on us!) and a tour of our facility led by Food Share’s President & CEO, Monica White. Learn what it takes to feed 250,000 neighbors facing food insecurity.
14th Annual CAN-tree Drive
Your favorite community event is back and going BIG for our 14th anniversary.
Ventura County Potters’ Guild 3rd Annual Bowl of Thanks
Join the Ventura County Potters’ Guild at Ventura Harbor Village on November 9–10, 2024, for the Ventura Pottery Market and Bowl of Thanks! Browse handmade pottery for sale and enjoy a special tasting event benefiting Food Share of Ventura County.
We Want to Hear From You!
Your Voice Matters
What do you think of The Orange Heart? Too much? Not enough? Want to see something added? We’d love your feedback—help us make this newsletter even better! 🧡
Email us your thoughts:
volunteer@foodshare.com
Your Community Engagement Team
Volunteer Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can volunteer at Food Share?
Anyone 12 years and older can volunteer! Volunteers under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Do I need to sign up in advance?
Yes. All volunteers must register in advance through our online volunteer portal.
What will I be doing as a volunteer?
Tasks vary by shift and may include sorting and packing food, assembling boxes or bags, and helping at food distributions. There is a description of activities when you register, and training will be provided on arrival.
What should I wear?
Closed-toe shoes are required. Dress comfortably with clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty, and be ready to work in a warehouse or outdoor environment. Layers are recommended.
Do you offer community service hours?
Yes! Food Share is happy to verify volunteer hours for school and clubs after your shift is completed. For court-mandated service, please email Lupita Rodriguez grodriguez@foodshare.com
How long are volunteer shifts?
Most shifts are 2–3 hours, though times can vary depending on the project or event.
Can groups volunteer together?
Absolutely! We welcome corporate, school, faith-based, and community groups. Group leaders should contact us in advance to schedule.
Do I need special skills or training?
No experience is needed—just a willingness to help and lift the required weight per volunteer description. We’ll provide all the training and guidance you need during your shift.
Where do volunteer activities take place?
Most shifts are held at our warehouses in Oxnard, but we also have off-site opportunities at food distributions and events across Ventura County.
How do I sign up?
Visit our volunteer page at Volunteer Opportunities – Food Share of Ventura County to view opportunities and register for a shift.
Have Questions about volunteering? We’ve Got Answers! Email us at volunteer@foodshare.com
