It is with immense pleasure I introduce to you our December Volunteer of the Month, Teresa Faust!

Teresa is an amazing volunteer here at Second Helpings. Starting in 2018, Teresa serves in two areas on alternate Wednesdays at the Front Desk and in the Huger Relief Kitchen with her husband Tim. We are so happy that Teresa is part of the Second Helpings family.

How did you become involved in Second Helpings?

Shortly before retiring from Eli Lilly four years ago, I began searching for a service-oriented organization that would allow me to give back to the Indianapolis community. I originally gave time to Horizon House by serving breakfast to our neighbors in need. Finding I had more time to give back, I looked across the street to the Second Helpings building and decided to see if it would be a good fit for me. The more I read and heard about their mission and accomplishments, the more I felt that it would be an organization that I would feel proud to be a part of.

What types of things have you done since you began volunteering with us?

After reviewing all the volunteer opportunities available, I settled on Produce Chopper and Front Desk Volunteer. I have been alternating between the two positions every week and find them equally rewarding in different ways. As a Produce Chopper, I’ve come to know and respect co-volunteers and the kitchen staff, and always feel a great deal of satisfaction after each shift, knowing our efforts are helping to feed those in need. My front desk duties are equally rewarding, since I support office staff to varying degrees and get to learn more about how Second Helpings operates.

What have you liked best about volunteering with us?

I appreciate the opportunity to work with the caring professionals and volunteers who make Second Helpings run smoothly, especially during the last two years and the challenges presented by the pandemic. Knowing that so many people are depending on Second Helpings, not only for nutritional support, but for job training and employment support makes it worthwhile.

What do you do when you’re not volunteering with us?

My days are full, as my time is spent being a caregiver for my 94-year-old mother, early morning exercise with November Project, league bowling, working toward my black belt in Kung Fu, and traveling.