I am so excited to introduce you to Susan Alvarez, Second Helpings’ Volunteer of the Month for March 2023.

Susan has been a volunteer for a little over a year now. She came through the doors with a heart to serve wherever she is needed. She brought a wealth of talent with her and it shows in all she does. Recently, Susan assisted Jennifer Tornatta, our Special Events Manager, as an assistant at Corks & Forks. I know Jen appreciated someone who understands what it takes to plan and execute such a huge event. I know Jen was incredibly grateful for the help. Thank you for all you do to support Second Helpings, Susan!

Learn more about Susan in her own words below.

How did you become involved with Second Helpings?

After my mother passed away and I was no longer her caregiver, I tried to decide where I wanted to volunteer. And as I knew about Second Helpings from when I taught at IUPUI and brought students over to tour the facility. It was a perfect choice. In addition, I have always been known by my friends as the one who feeds everyone, and seeing one of my former students (John Meinert, Food Rescue and Transportation Director) about every time I’m here is a bonus.

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

I primarily work in three areas – produce chopping, meat chopping, and pan wrapping, but I have worked in the Hub, helping sort meat, making sandwiches, packaged grab-and-go meals, and even cooking pasta in a tilt. In addition, I’m on the Corks and Forks committee.

What have you liked best about volunteering at Second Helpings?

I love volunteering as I get to “work” with fun and exciting people I might have never met. But, most importantly, I am in awe of how much food is received and transformed and how much money it saves our partner agencies. I also love seeing how the produce and meat that I have chopped make incredible meals and seeing who are the recipients of the meals.

What are you most proud of accomplishing through your volunteer work here?

I’m most proud of being a small fish in a big school of fish that helps feed Indy. And I’m also proud that I am flexible, so when asked to switch tasks or do something new, my answer is 99.9% yes; the 0.01% no is to chopping onions, but if I have to, I reluctantly will.

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

When not volunteering, I love to travel. I also like to be at home with my diva pug Lulu and my terrible terrier mix, Lucky. I cross stitch, crochet, read, and enjoy cooking.

Do you volunteer for any other organization?

I volunteer at my church and am looking to add new opportunities soon. In addition, I host between 1-2 resident artists for the Indianapolis Opera each semester.

What would people be surprised to know about you?

While many know I grew up in Puerto Rico, few know I was almost born in Cuba and missed it by two months. Mom lived there and had to leave after the revolution in August 1960. I was born in Miami, had 1st birthday in Spain, and 2nd in Puerto Rico.