Volunteer of the Month

Volunteer of the Month - March 2013

Basil Alexander

Tell us a little bit about yourself?

In addition to volunteering as a McKenna’s Wagon driver, I am also a Civil Engineer and an Attorney.  I help negotiate and manage large-scale construction projects, and I also serve as an expert witness when construction disputes turn into claims. 

Why did you get involved originally, what made you want to volunteer and why Martha's Table?

I was born and raised in Washington DC – in fact my two kids were born at the same hospital as me – and I started cutting vegetables for Martha’s Table’s soup in elementary school.  In high school, I really enjoyed the adventure of going out on McKenna's Wagon as a volunteer/server.

After living in Beijing, New York and San Diego for about a decade, I returned to DC in 2007.  At that time, I was working long hours at the office and didn’t really do any extracurricular activities or community service.  About a year after returning to DC, by wife reminded me that I was missing “that special spark” that came from the service of others.  Shortly thereafter I returned to Martha’s Table and got trained as a McKenna’s Wagon driver.

Is there a moment that stands out in your mind about your volunteer experience, with another volunteer or with our staff?

As a driver on the Wagon, I often get to meet high school students who are serving the homeless community for the first time, sometimes to fulfill requirements for high school graduation.  I like to teach them the importance of serving others and the importance of acting professionally in their service (and showing up on time!).  Most importantly, I hope that volunteering on the Wagon plants a seed within them that will mature into a lifelong dedication to service.

Volunteer of the Month - December 2012

Kimberly Rivera

Why did you get involved originally, what made you want to volunteer and why Martha's Table?

I became involved with Martha's Table to fulfill a high school requirement. I am currently a senior at School Without Walls and in order to graduate I must complete 120 unpaid internship hours.  I have volunteered at a couple of other places throughout the years and I have found that I really enjoy working with kids, therefore I decided to give the child care center at Martha’s Table a try. Although there are many other sites within the District of Columbia that specialize in child care I chose Martha's Table because I was very much impressed by the range of programs Martha’s Table offers the community.  This experience so far is very new to me because the kids i am working with are younger than most of the kids I've worked with in the past. It is definitely a learning experience, but I absolutely love it.

Is there a moment that stands out in your mind about your volunteer experience, with another volunteer or with our staff?

Every Tuesday and Thursday I walk into Martha’s Table, I greet the receptionist and wave at the volunteer coordinators. I then sign myself in and walk on over to the classroom. This is what stands out the most. I am greeted by so many kind people. I walk by the kitchen and I see people hard at work, smiling, and making a difference. That is exactly why I chose to volunteer at Martha’s Table. I wanted to be part of a program whose mission was to serve others without asking for anything in return. It is extremely rewarding to be part of such an amazing organization that truly strives to make a difference in the community.

Volunteer of the Month - November 2012

Michael is a solid presence in Martha's Outfitters every Wednesday and Friday.  He volunteers during our referral process helping folks, who wouldn't normally be able to afford it, the clothing they need.

Why did you get involved originally, what made you want to volunteer and why Martha's Table? 

Working at Martha’s Outfitters was a great opportunity to work directly with the public and those in need. To be honest, it’s a really great time to be working with Martha’s Outfitters because it seems to be growing and gaining a popularity. I like working with them directly because I get to see people get excited about being able to afford the clothing they need to keep them warm.

Is there a moment that stands out in your mind about your volunteer experience, with another volunteer or with our staff?

Yes, there is one in particular. One lady who came in lived in a homeless shelter nearby. She was in the process of preparing for a job interview. We helped her pick out an outfit for her interview, and sent her on her way. A few weeks later, she came back in, not to buy something else, but to tell us that she had gotten the job! She was so thankful for what Martha's Outfitters was able to provide.  My favorite part of the experience is watching people better their own lives, and we get to be a part of that by providing some of the tools they need.

Volunteer of the Month - October 2012

Andrey Bogoslowsky

Why did you get involved originally, what made you want to volunteer and why Martha's Table?

I found Martha's Table in 2003.  I am a full time artist.  I work from home. I am blessed with a great wife and three daughters.  The nature of creative work is that it is very self centered, and self searching. After eight hours in the studio all by myself,  I just need to get out and be with other people. I need to do something positive, productive, inspiring, encouraging, life giving, life preserving and helping.  And I need to have HANDS ON EXPERIENCE. All of our clients, everyone of them,  I consider my distant cousin!  Humanity is one big family.  Some of us just are low on their luck. This is my belief, and it allows me to make specific choices in life.  I feel unity with bigger world than my little dwelling. I feel a part of my city, as if I was organically attached to it.  This is why I am a very safe driver. I care about others on the street, in the park, rain or shine, my principles don't change.  I feel a great synergy with Martha's Table.  Their  positive and uplifting spirit of good will is glowing all the way up to Capital Hill.

Is there a moment that stands out in your mind about your volunteer experience, with another volunteer or with our staff?

This story happened a few years ago, in the Fall.  Crystal, the volunteer coordinator, had scheduled me to drive. My 15 year old daughter, Sasha, was spending the Thanksgiving holidays with me in Washington, DC.  She didn't want to come with me, but I talked her into it and she tearfully agreed. When we arrived at Martha's Table,  Crystal was very excited to tell us that a "motorcycle club" would be volunteering with us in the van . But as the clock ticked nobody showed up. Crystal decided to reload the vans,  and have one van go out to all three locations.  It was cold, rainy day with gray skies. But we made it.  We fed over 200 people who were very very hungry and really needed us.  Just the three of us.  On the way back home my daughter was soaking wet but proud of herself that she did it.  I realized nothing is impossible.

Where there is a will there is a way.  

Volunteer of the Month - September 2012

Why did you get involved originally, what made you want to volunteer and why Martha's Table?

I spent five years working at a non-profit agency that provided social services to the low-income community in California.  Being new to DC and now a federal employee, I really missed the sense of community working at a non-profit agency provided and the ability to directly touch the lives of those in need.  I first found out about Martha's Table last summer, when I needed to find a thrift store in my neighborhood to donate some clothes.  It was a wonderful surprise to see that not only did Martha's Table operate a thrift store, there were also food security programs, child development and education programs.  Martha's Table had  the type of holistic approach to social services that is critical for meeting the needs of families.  I respect and believe in that approach and wanted to help Martha's Table make a difference in my community. 

Is there a moment that stands out in your mind about your volunteer experience, with another volunteer or with our staff?

I work very closely with the Grants Coordinator at Martha's Table, Zarinah Hameen.  Seeing her dedication to her work and the energy with which she greets every challenge is inspiring.  It reminds me to bring that same type of attitude to my own work, both as a volunteer and as a federal employee.

Volunteer of the Month - August 2012

Why did you get involved originally, what made you want to volunteer and why Martha's Table? 

I spent the last 5 years of my life focused soley on work. And when I finally got some down time, it dawned on me that life is so much more than work, deadlines and self gratifying ambitions. Rather the beauty of life is realized through kinds words, compassion and extending blessings to others, not just benefitting from them. After reaching out to about four or five local nonprofits including Martha's Table, Nadia and a MT intern were the only folks that followed up with me. Soon after, the girls swiftly signed me up for driver's training for the one and two stops. And I've been rolling ever since!

Is there a moment that stands out in your mind about your volunteer experience, with another volunteer or with our staff?

Each experience out on Mckenna's Wagon, is unlike the last. There are good days and not so good days, but the time spent is never about me, it's about making sure, no matter what, that our neighbors go to bed with a full bellies. Although there was that one time I drove to the wrong stop at Farragut instead of Mcpherson Sqaure and wondered why no one was there... I try to not to talk about it!

Volunteer of the Month - July 2012

Zeni is interning at Martha's Table for her second summer in our Children's Program. The kids adore her and the staff love working with her. Her cheerful personality and great work ethic makes her a great asset to our Internship Program. So much that we also recruit her to help us out at fundraiser events (pictured here at 2011 Cork event).

Why did you get involved originally, what made you want to volunteer and why Martha's Table?

I originally got involved with Martha's Table to fulfill a school requirement. When I was in 12th grade I needed a place where I could donate community service hours. During my search my brother lent a helping hand and referred me to Martha's Table. He had done hours there years prior and said it was an amazing experience, so I decided to gave it a try. My first morning Food Prep shift was life changing. For the first time in my life I was making a difference.  After I had completed the necessary hours, I kept coming back. I was eager to help in anyway I could.  Now, almost 3 years later, I am as passionate about the organization as the first day I came.   

Is there a moment that stands out in your mind about your volunteer experience, with another volunteer or with our staff?

Last month, the 'South African Dancers' came in to teach the children's program students about South African culture through dance. The dancers made a connection between the struggles of South Africa and interpreted that into dance, while making the whole concept comprehensible for the young elementary students. Their performance gave students a diverse knowledge about the rich South African culture in a way that had motivate them to get physical and to learn more about South Africa. The performer's enthusiasm was infectious. The students loved the performance. Many of them were brought on stage, and showed off their newly learned skills. For the rest of the day they did South African dances and were excited to tell their parents about the exciting day that they had. Being able to see these students embracing a culture different from theirs was very inspiring.

Volunteer of the Month - June 2012

Volunteer of the Month - May 2012

Marty Berger has been recruiting and transporting Bullis student volunteers for over a decade.  Every Monday Bullis students and Marty walk through the doors ready to help serve food on our mobile soup kitchen, McKenna's Wagon.  Marty is retiring from Bullis this year and we just want to take the time to say thank you for all of his hard work with inspiring students to give back to their community.  You will be missed next year but we look forward to being a part of your bucket list in retirement.  Thanks, Marty!

Why did you get involved with Martha's Table originally, what made you want to volunteer and why here?

I started working with Martha's Table almost 14 years ago. As the Director of Community Service at Bullis I began looking for meaningful opportunities for Bullis Students. 

Is there a moment that stands out in your mind about your volunteer experience, with another volunteer or with our staff?

I was overwhelmed by the reaction of the students from Potomac to people in DC who lined up nightly for something to eat. The discovery for them was more than just noticing hunger; rather they felt good about the expressed gratitude of the clients they were serving. The students would say, "Mr. Berger, the clients keep saying God Bless You. That's so cool." The volunteer opportunity at Martha's Table became the standard by which I measured subsequent projects.

Volunteer of the Month - April 2012

Why did you get involved with Martha's Table originally, what made you want to volunteer and why here?

Kathy got in involved with Martha's Table first as a donor.  She collected and donated clothing for Martha's Outfitters, our community thrift store.  The Director at Martha's Outfitters at the time asked her to come by and volunteer.  Since then, she has been coming to help out in the store every Wednesday.  Kathy also volunteers at our holiday community dinners, with our emergency food pantry and has recently started participating at our off-site school pantry distributions.  Kathy says, "volunteering at Martha's Table I get to meet great people and it has become a constant in my life." 

Is there a moment that stands out in your mind about your volunteer experience, with another volunteer or with our staff?

Kathy says that helping out with our food program during pantry day and at our school pantry really resonates with her, " the human touch, talking to folks and the having direct contact with people has had a real effect on me.  Everyone should be treated with dignity and respect and this is what it is all about."  Recently, Kathy helped out at Garrison Elementary during our school pantry, "The 'mom in me' loved helping those kids - the pantry gives them ability to make choices and understand those choices.  It engages them and I loved helping them with that."  During pantry Kathy helped kids choose 16 different types of fruits and vegetables that they wanted to take home.

Volunteer of the Month - March 2012

Aaron Ginoza

Why did you get involved with Martha's Table originally, what made you want to volunteer and why here?

I got involved with Martha's Table through a Digital PR class I took at Johns Hopkins. I was part of a team of masters students that developed an online engagement plan for Martha's Outfitters. During the class, I was very interested in helping an organization that had both a great mission and strong relationships with other local non-profit organizations.

In January, after the class had ended, Michael was kind enough to let me attempt to implement the online engagement plan we came up with in the class. Things have gone pretty well; we've seen a 300% increase in Twitter followers, a 35% increase in Facebook fans, and I have heard some folks are now donating clothes who said they heard about Martha's Outfitters online. It is really motivating knowing that online engagement can positively impact the store's bottom line!

Is there a moment that stands out in your mind about your volunteer experience, with another volunteer or with our staff?

Last month, NPR (where I work full time) organized a series of Black History Month events that helped raise money for Martha's Table. A moment that stands out for me was attending NPR's Black History Month silent auction and connecting with Martha's Table staff; two staff members from Martha's Table came to the NPR BHM event and they were both great. 

It was awesome to hear them talk about Martha's Table's children and youth programming. I help run a spiritual empowerment program for middle schoolers in my neighborhood in NE, DC so I was excited to hear about Martha's Table's programming for children and youth. That night, it was a really great feeling knowing that both my volunteer efforts and NPR's silent auction were contributing to the success of a great organization that supports so many members of the larger DC community.

Volunteer of the Month - February 2012

Saba Tabriz

Why did you get involved with Martha's Table originally, what made you want to volunteer and why here?

I developed a strong partnership with Starbucks in Bethesda to donate their left-over food.  I began looking for a credible non-profit organization to donate the left-overs that serves families and homeless individuals.  Among the many non-profits and kitchens in the D.C. area, Martha's Table shined the brightest in my eyes.  I was truly impressed and inspired by their efforts in bringing meals on McKenna's Wagon to neighborhoods and communities in need. After a few months of making regular deliveries from Starbucks to Martha's Table, I continued to be amazed with the many programs the close-knit, strong-minded and even stronger-willed, staff conceived, established, and grew. So when offered a position to intern with Zarinah Hameen in the development office, there was no hesitation in my acceptance.

Is there a moment that stands out in your mind about your volunteer experience, with another volunteer or with our staff?

There is no one moment that stands out in my mind about this experience, but the staff as a whole has made this experience one of the best.  Everyday I walk into Martha's Table's main doors with a warm greeting from Ms. Debbie or Ms. Ro at the front desk, meet Nadia's (volunteer coordinator) big smile and sweet compliments as I pass through the back door in the kitchen, crack jokes and catch up with Justin (food program manager), Martin (food coordinator), and the rest of the big-hearted kitchen staff as I meticulously pack away my donations for the day.  Upon entering the "gray building," I'm welcomed by the accounting staff and I'm always humbled by Ann's (director of development) efforts in never failing to remind me how much she appreciates my help. Last, but certainly not least, the support I've received from Zarinah (development coordinator) and Kim (development and volunteer manager) have been invaluable. I can't begin to thank Zarinah for all that I've learned and the amount of growth that I've made since I began working with her.  She has always supporting me in all of my crazy endeavors, and coming into work each week has provided me with a relaxing, fulfilling, and (most importantly) a FUN break from the chaos of class and schoolwork. 

Volunteer of the Month - January 2012

Ashley Martin

Why did you get involved with Martha's Table originally, what made you want to volunteer and why here?

I got involved with Martha's Table because I had to relocate back home from school due to financial problems. I was in such a bad state that I just needed to be doing something I loved. I love giving back and I have a passion to help those in need. I passed Martha's Table on the bus one day and decided to look on the internet and volunteer there as soon as possible. The first time I went to volunteer I knew that I had found a family that I would never loose, I had found my place. 

Is there a moment that stands out in your mind about your volunteer experience, with another volunteer or with our staff?

I have had so many memories and moments at Martha's Table its hard to just pick one. However, if have to say my most memorable moment was the first day I came to volunteer.  It was a Tuesday and I had just gotten up from the orientation table.  I stood in the middle of the prep room feeling a little lost. One of the lead volunteers, Mrs.Marie approached me and said, "Go ahead and put on your hair net and help package these deserts".  From that point on I knew I wanted to be a welcoming lead volunteer just like her. Marie showed me the ropes to every task possible. This allowed me, not only to complete things in ample time, it helped me be of more assistance and teach others how I was taught. Thanks a million Mrs. Marie, truly.

Volunteer of the Month - December 2011

Chrissy Norelli

Why did you get involved with Martha’s Table originally, what made you want to volunteer and why here?

I first heard of Martha’s Table through The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars.  When offered the semester internship position under the Development and Volunteer Coordinator Department, I immediately said yes.  Martha’s Table addresses hunger and education, issues that I have been interested in at my home institution, Lock Haven University in Pennsylvania.  Since interning at Martha’s Table, I’ve learned that hunger and homelessness can go hand-in-hand and it’s something that plagues our nation’s capital.  I am still amazed by the scope of programs Martha’s Table offers the community and am grateful to be a part of its mission, even if it is just for a few months. 

Is there a moment that stands out in your mind about your volunteer experience, with another volunteer, or with our staff?

I interact with volunteers on a daily basis and I am astonished by the amount of people who want to help in any way that they can.  One day, a daycare classroom flooded due to heavy rains. The room had to be cleared out, the carpets had to be removed and everything had to be cleaned and rearranged.  We asked our volunteer group that day to help lift the wet and heavy carpets out of the room.  The volunteers cleaned everything without hesitation, which meant the children would be able to reenter the classroom that very same day.  When the volunteers found out that the carpets would have to be thrown out, they dropped everything to go out and buy new rugs.  They didn’t have to do this and were not asked to, but they went to extreme lengths to make sure that the children could return to a classroom that was in the same condition as when they left it.  It is moments like this that show the flexibility of our volunteers, their willingness to help in any way possible, and their genuine nature.  It was the greatest act of kindness I have ever seen. 

Volunteer of the Month - November 2011

Abby McEwan

Video of Abby Here

Why did you get involved with Martha's Table originally, what made you want to volunteer and why here?

I became involved with Martha's Table in September 2010, just after I moved to Washington, DC.  I had volunteered on a regular basis with City Harvest and the Coalition for the Homeless while I lived in New York, and I hoped to continue working on issues and programs related to hunger and homelessness here in Washington.  Martha's Table impressed me with the breadth of its work and commitment to fighting poverty on multiple fronts.  As a neighbor in the U St. area, I find it particularly rewarding to volunteer with an organization based in this part of town and whose outreach programs -- from the children's play area to Martha's Outfitters -- are so visibly a part of 14th St.  I always look forward to delivering food through McKenna's Wagon and helping, albeit in a small way, to serve the city's most needy.  The friendly staff and the diverse group of volunteers make the experience a lot of fun.

Is there a moment that stands out in your mind about your volunteer experience, either on the van, with another volunteer, or with our staff?

I can't say that a single moment stands out to me.  The yeoman efforts of the staff and many other volunteers are admirable (and humbling), and perhaps more than anything I am struck by the day in, day out work of so many that allows a hot meal to reach over a hundred people every day.  There is as well something deeply satisfying in being able to serve food directly to those who most need it.  I have great respect for the cumulative work that goes into McKenna's Wagon, from the kitchen to the packaging of the food and the organization of the volunteers, and I'm honored to be a part of it.

Volunteer of the Month - October 2011

Fred Leamenson

Why did you get involved with Martha's Table originally, what made you want to volunteer and why here?

I got involved because I was doing similar work a number of years ago through my church in Indianapolis. Once we moved here, for whatever reason I got out of the habit. After years of procrastination, I finally began to research what institutions were doing in DC for the homeless. What motivated me was the fact that, in my walk to and from Metro to the office, or anywhere in downtown DC, the number of homeless or, at least, needy people I passed was striking. After researching places, I was struck by the fact that McKenna’s Wagon was the only service of its kind in DC that went out every day to take food to the needy. It was 10 minutes from my office and fit perfectly into what I was looking for.  After doing the driver training and experiencing serving on the vans, I was hooked.

Is there a moment that stands out in your mind about your volunteer experience, either on the van, with another volunteer, or with our staff?

The most impactful thing that happened to me was on Memorial Day of 2010. My wife joined me that day to serve on the van I was driving. It was the end of the month, so there was a huge crowd. At the second stop, the line was very long. I was serving sandwiches and desserts from the side of the van. When I looked up, I saw a grandmother at the standing beside the van with three grandchildren whose oldest was maybe 4 or 5 years old. The people in line had moved them to the front to get fed first. The look of sadness in the children’s eyes broke our hearts. We loaded them up with food and saw their eyes brighten, ever so slightly. That family really struck me. What was their story? How did they get to this point? What were they doing on the other days? Though these questions will likely never be answered, I know that on that day, those kids went away with a hot cup of hearty soup and enough sandwiches to get them through a couple of days. It made me realize how blessed we are and how important McKenna’s Wagon is to the people they serve. It may be one of the few things that these folks can count on in their life. I’m blessed to be a part of it.

Volunteer of the Month - September 2011

Chloe Isaac

Chloe came to us in June and like many 16 year olds, she wanted to meet her school community service requirements over the summer.  Chloe is a extraordinary 16 year old, she works so well with others and is such a team player that she now is the lead volunteer on the weekends and our Saturday Seniors program- serving lunches to senior shut-ins in the neighborhood.  I asked Chloe a few question.

What is your favorite part of volunteering at Martha's Table? 

To see the people.  For Saturday Seniors, it is rewarding to know how happy they are to receive food, I like to see them smiling.

What is a moment that sticks out in your mind from your volunteer experience?

Just realizing how much I am actually helping, hearing the responses from other volunteers on how much they appreicate what I am doing.  It is very rewarding.

Volunteer of the Month - August 2011

Jenn McCrea-Steele

For a year, Jenn has volunteered twice a week in the daycare and elementary program.  I asked Jenn why she likes to volunteer with the children at Martha's Table, "volunteering at Martha's Table means I am a part of the community."  Jenn has plans for graduate school in social work and said this is great hands on experience.  Her favorite part about volunteering is "watching the kids develop from within.  I started coming here when they were 2 years old and now they are 3 and have grown up so much, it is very rewarding."  It is easy to tell why we chose her for Volunteer of the Month, the kids love her...literally.  After our interview we left the classroom and the children and teachers yeld out, "Bye, Jenn.  Love you!!!"

Volunteer of the Month - July 2011

Ms. Ernestine Williams

You know it is Friday or Saturday morning at Martha's Table when you see Ms. Ernestine stroll through our front doors.  A dedicated volunteer for over 18 years, she is a staple here at Martha's Table.  We thank her for all of her hard work and service.

Volunteer of the Month - June 2011

Claire the Dance Teacher

Claire has been teaching dance to our Daycare and Children and Youth Programs for almost a year.  She comes twice a week and gets the kids moving and stretching.  The  kind of dedication Claire has is inspiring...especially since she is only 12!  Read more about Claire's volunteer experience on our recent blog post, Feeling Like a Princess.