Saving kindness

Jodi Quibell is this week's Volinspire Volunteer of the Week.

What inspired you to volunteer?

My sister-in-law has operated a small program called The Christmas Store in Cherryville for many years. Children from the local elementary school can "shop" for Christmas gifts using canned food as currency, with the food then being donated to the local food bank. In November 2012, I decided to offer a similar program in Kelowna, except that it is open to the general public. This is when Food for Gifts was born.

Which cause are you most passionate about?

I am passionate about helping others in whatever way I can. If I had to choose a specific cause, it would be anything related to children. Each generation has the opportunity to do better, be better, and serve better than the previous one. My wish is that I could show each child the power of giving rather than expecting, and to help them become resilient and capable. 

Who do you volunteer for?

The Save Kindness Society, which I founded in February 2015.

What does a typical volunteer shift look like?

You'll find me doing every possible role associated with operating a non-profit – sorting donations, distributing kindness packages, bookkeeping, sending emails, writing proposals, banking, making connections.

What impact have you seen volunteers make?

Volunteers can make or break an organization. I am very protective of The Save Kindness Society and have a select few, truly kind people associated with our organization, as opposed to having those who are kind only when the cameras are on or if they are guaranteed recognition. 

Most memorable volunteer experience?

There have been many moments that will live on in my memory. One of my favourites was a Facebook conversation I had with two different women just before Christmas last year. One woman, a single mom, wanted to give a Christmas dinner and gifts to a family that may not otherwise be able to enjoy. She spoke with her siblings and her children, and they all agreed to put money toward helping someone else rather than buying for each other. The other woman I messaged with, also a single mom, said she would be so grateful to receive such a blessing. What an honour to be the person helping choose the receiving family. By the end of the two conversations, we were all in tears. 

How can people get involved?

The Save Kindness Society, being a relatively new non-profit, has limited sources of funding. We maintain a small storage unit, purchase items needed by other community organizations, and provide support to those individuals who fall through the cracks (e.g. working poor, independent seniors, etc). We have recently opened an online second-hand store on Facebook, Second Chance Boutique, to try and cover our expenses, but the process has been challenging with limited help. 

Is there anyone else you would like to recognize?

The people who have been the most supportive are the types who believe kindness is done in secret. I tell these wonderful souls as much as I can how very grateful I am for their hard work, dedication, love and support.

– Do you know an inspiring volunteer? Nominate them for a volunteer spotlight.