By Nicole Rossi
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to work or volunteer with the Hunger Relief team? As part of our commitment to raising awareness during Hunger Action Month, we’re bringing you behind the scenes in a short Q&A with Dustin Ayers, Food Supply Coordinator at Sierra Community House!
1. What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Knowing that this work is helping people in our community is my favorite part of this job. On a daily basis, I get to interact with community members who tell me that we’re improving their day and their lives. Witnessing these positive changes firsthand and being part of a team dedicated to such impactful work is incredibly fulfilling and drives my passion for what I do.
2. What initially drew you to the job and the team?
The opportunity to make a positive shift in the community! Before joining the team at Sierra Community House, I was working remotely, and felt disconnected from my neighbors and what was happening here. I’m grateful to now be part of such an important cause in North Lake Tahoe Truckee.
3. What is one thing you would want community members in Tahoe Truckee to know about how they can make a difference?
As someone who was previously skeptical about this line of work having an actual impact, I now know firsthand how effective these programs are. My expectations have been blown away by seeing how much this program is helping community members. I want our community partners, volunteers, and other supporters to know that this is a very efficient, high quality program that uses every resource and asset that is available to us. We’re grateful for the support!
4. Last year, your team served more that 292,000 meals to community members. How do you work together as a team to keep this program running at such an impressive pace?
Our work is fueled by the sense of community among staff and volunteers. We are all here with a common goal of helping others. The work we do is very tangible, and seeing the results and hearing the impact stories keeps us going.
5. How do you interact with volunteers as part of your job?
The volunteers make our work easy! They love to help, and they share a similar mindset of wanting to make a positive impact in the community. Without them, this wouldn’t work. Many of them have even said that our team (of staff and volunteers) is their second family!
6. What keeps you optimistic about the future?
Knowing that there are so many supportive, caring, and giving people involved at Sierra Community House. Our program is successful because of you! The collective dedication and compassion of our team and community members fuel my optimism that we can continue making a positive difference in the lives of those we serve.
