Sai Dham at its core was founded with one goal in mind: community service. That foundation is what pushes us to expand every year and gather more and more donations to help those in need. We have come quite a long way, from starting in a basement in 2012 to impacting around 20,000 individuals every month. Throughout the years, our mission and values have always remained the same. A big part of our organization is volunteers that dedicate their free time to helping others. They remain the heart and soul of our operation and as we look to expand, we need to expand this heart as well.

One of the most rewarding experiences as a volunteer is the joy that you can create in someone else’s life. Your one small act of kindness can change an entire life. In the day and age of today, we should help the countless that are struggling to put food on the table. Having the good fortune of expecting food every day can be easily taken for granted, but as soon as you encounter our clients, that reality is struck down. After all, the best way to help yourself is to help others. Scientific evidence, according to The Mental Health Foundation, has shown that helping others can also benefit our own mental health and well-being. For example, it can reduce stress as well as improve mood, self-esteem, and happiness.

Even at Sai Dham, this remains true. Volunteers have raved about this joy countless times. One of them spoke of their experience with Sai Dham: ”I’m thankful to God that we can serve those in need. One of the blessings and advantages we have in this human life is to live for others.” The gift of giving truly never ends.

The connection with our clients is special to Sai Dham Food Bank, and volunteers are able to see this firsthand, through life-enhancing experiences while delivering donations. Hearing someone pour their heart out and be truly grateful is a wonderful reward for all the volunteer work. John Ish Ishmael, a vulnerable senior, shared a heartfelt message after Sai Dham’s monthly hamper donation, “You continue to do wonders for the Community and for Seniors like my wife and me.” Such instances are one of many that are sure to fill up anyone’s heart with joy and happiness.

This summer, take the initiative and volunteer at Sai Dham Food Bank. Join a group of over 150 active volunteers, all of who share the same goal, working in tandem to accomplish our mission of community service. Help deliver groceries to vulnerable seniors in our Monthly Hamper service, or ensure children receive adequate nutrition in our Children’s Breakfast Program. Volunteers can also help pack, organize, and sort the warehouse, working as a team while meeting like-minded people. Even unconventional positions such as data entry and social media are all needed! Head over to our website and complete the Volunteer Application Form to join the team and start giving!