JULY 2026
“Volunteers come for the mission and stay for the friends they’ve made.” – David Bayer
Welcome to the Latest Edition of
The Orange Heart!рџ§Ў
Summer has been full of energy at Food Share! We were thrilled to welcome two amazing volunteer groups to the home of Ingrid Loh, where they rolled up their sleeves and gleaned oranges on two separate days. Their enthusiasm and teamwork were inspiring and, together, they gleaned 20,000 pounds of fresh oranges for our neighbors.
July brought exciting team news: Lupita Rodriguez is our new Community Engagement Manager! We are so proud of Lupita and grateful for the commitment and leadership she brings to Food Share and our volunteer community.
And there’s still plenty to do! We’re nearly finished sorting the incredible food donated during the National Association of Letter Carriers’ Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive. Rescue shifts are available, and we’d love your help with this final push. Sign up at foodshare.com/volunteer.
Thank you for continuing to show up, lend a hand, and bring so much heart to Food Share! рџ§Ў
Volunteer Impact January 2026 So Far
Volunteers
Volunteer Hours
$
Value of volunteer hours!
Meals = 1 Volunteer Hour
“Volunteers are the heart of Food Share, and reaching 500 hours of service is an incredible milestone. We are so grateful for this group’s dedication, compassion and commitment to helping feed our community.” —  Monica White
Spotlight on Service!
“We wanted our students to experience a life changing experience, and we can’t think of anything more valuable than Food Share”
— Craig Floyd and Fred Alvarez from Ojai Valley School
“I retired and was looking for something fun and rewarding to do”
— Nancy Haven
Group Highlights
Stories & Impact
Other Ways to Help
Mark Your Calendar!
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
LAURA THOMSON
Volunteer Events
Coordinator
LILIE GURROLA
Volunteer Engagement
Coordinator
CHARLIE BERTOK
Volunteer Operations
Coordinator
FRANCISCO AVILA
Volunteer Operations
Coordinator
CARLOS PEREZ
Volunteer Operations
Coordinator
Volunteer Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can volunteer at Food Share?
Anyone 12В 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.В 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 В to view opportunities and register for a shift.
Have Questions about volunteering? We’ve Got Answers! Email us at volunteer@foodshare.com
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