August 29, 2024

Dear CRC,

We are officially in my favorite time of year. It is fall (ish) but the frenzy of the holiday season isn't upon us quite yet. Golden hour hits sooner, pumpkin spice lattes are out (I don't drink them but their existence gives me cozy vibes) and here in San Diego, we can wear shorts still.

We are also gearing up for some pretty great things at CRC. We are starting to plan our Holiday Baskets Distribution, are launching our 2024/2025 Youth Advisory Board, and are about to enter September's Hunger Action Month.

In putting this newsletter together, I was struck once again with the incredible loyalty, compassion and hard work that the CRC Volunteer team brings each day. This past month was full of volunteers working behind-the-scenes to keep our programs running. It is truly humbling, and it is impossible for me to highlight it all. That said, read on to see some of the amazing things volunteers have been up to! And make sure to tune in next month to see the ways CRC joins in the work to end hunger in our community.

Gratefully,

Sara Rosenbaum, CVA

CRC Volunteer Manager

New Youth Advisory Board Members Share Their "Why"

"I am looking to be able to be a leader for the community, helping and guiding others to know that everyone has a voice and ideas that are welcome in the world to make a change.

I am very thankful for this opportunity!"

Camila Aragon

"I think there should be more young people involved in the CRC. I volunteer on Fridays in the Food Pantry when I can. I notice that the food bank is such a happy place, and I tell my peers all the time that they should volunteer with CRC!"

Chet Kinzelberg (pictured with an Encinitas Councilmember)

"I lost a good friend to a tragic e-bike accident, and he had lived his life with compassion for others. To honor his memory, I always ask, 'What would Brodee do?' That always drives me to be better, not only for myself, but for everyone around me."

Tyler Shaw

Congratulations to CRC's Volunteer of the Month Heather Thiele!

From Encinitas Store Manager, Robert; "Heather comes in twice a week (Tuesday and Thursday) to our Encinitas Resale shop. She sorts through the jewelry donations, selecting nicer items to sell. Heather is fun to work with and she is very easy going. She even has a customer following. We can always tell that it is Tuesday or Thursday by certain customers who come to see what new jewelry Heather has put out. Heather also cashiers for us. She is great with the customers and donors. We are really lucky to have Heather as a member of our team. Her dedication to the jewelry and consistency with putting new jewelry items out twice a week continually generates more sales revenue for CRC."

Thank you Heather!

Ever wonder how you can do a little bit more to support your neighbors who struggle with food insecurity? September is Hunger Action Month, and there are some fun ways you can get involved! Consider hosting a bake sale to raise awareness of food insecurity in our community, and then donate the proceeds to CRC! Or, organize a food drive for our Food Pantry. You can also wear orange on Tuesday, September 10, the Hunger Action Month advocacy day. We hope to have at least one restaurant "Give Back" night in September, so keep an eye out for details!

Did you make it this far in the newsletter? If so, let me know and you will be entered to win a Starbucks gift card, perfect for pumpkin spice lattes or treat of your choice!

Help a Neighbor in Need