November 29, 2024

Dear CRC,

Did you know that expressing gratitude can improve mental and physical health? And that receiving someone's gratitude has been shown to improve mood and productivity, and reduce fatigue? As a fan of pop psychology (if volunteer management hadn't panned out, I'd be a neuroscience researcher), it is fascinating to see the way the human brain functions and the significant, measurable impact that thankfulness can have.

This newsletter will be hitting your inboxes the day after Thanksgiving, along with (more than likely!) dozens of Black Friday shopping emails. If this one doesn't get lost in the fray, I hope that one extra day and one extra encouragement to think about your blessings is a welcome addition! Community Resource Center has so many things to be grateful for this season:

• Our Resale Stores keep things out of the landfills and provide affordable options for people out shopping.
• Our Food Pantry provides supplemental groceries and personal care items to those experiencing financial hardship this year, including our unsheltered neighbors.
• Our Holiday Baskets Program will be providing a dignified shopping experience for families in need, backpacks for unsheltered clients, and gift bags for local seniors.
• We get to partner with nearly 2000 of you in our mission to give dignified and compassionate care to others. CRC volunteers are honestly the BEST!

Thank you for choosing to partner with us, whether on a daily, weekly, monthly or sporadic basis. It matters to us and it especially matters to those who come to us for support! Read below to see more of why CRC volunteers inspire gratitude in our staff, and explore ways to get involved.

Gratefully,



Sara Rosenbaum, CVA

CRC Volunteer Manager

Our Holiday Baskets Behind-The-Scenes Volunteers

Congratulations to CRC's Volunteer of the Month, David Hall!

David was nominated by his co-lead for the Monday food pantry crew, Duke (with the volunteer manager in hearty agreement). Duke shares, "David comes in early every Monday morning and silently does his work in the back, leading his sorting crew and making sure food items are not past the date that is safe for them to be consumed. He is humble and does this because he cares and is looking for no accolades. He has earned the respect of his fellow volunteers, going out of his way to lend a hand if he sees any volunteer, front or back, in need of assistance. We, and our clients, are so fortunate to have his help on Mondays."

David has also stepped in several times this month to support the Holiday Baskets Program where needed, and tables at events when he can. He is a valuable part of our team and we are grateful for him! Thank you!

CRC Swag Shares Our Story!

CRC's Holiday Baskets Program is coming up on Saturday, December 7th! Volunteer spots are now open to all current volunteers. We have a few set-up shifts and then a later offsite opportunity that day still to fill. Interested? Email our Holiday Baskets Scheduling Captain for more information.

Help a Neighbor in Need