Helping Out and Having Fun: A Day of Volunteering at the Alameda Food Bank

Realtors who volunteered at Alameda Food Bank for Windermere's National Community Service Day

Happy to volunteer for a great cause! L - R: Front row, Sharon Mancillas, Sally Anne Rudloff, Karen Miller, Michelle Morgan, & Catherine Bierwith. Back row, Chris Curtis (Broker) & Shannon Reese

Ready, Set, Go!

We arrived all chipper and ready to get started for our volunteering shift. What did we do? From the moment an Alameda Food Bank client stepped through the door until they left, we ensured that their experience was seamless, efficient, and accompanied by a warm and welcoming smile. We also diligently restocked the shelves with a wide variety of choices, including fresh vegetables, to ensure an abundant selection. Although it was hard work, at the end of it we might have gained just as much, if not more, as the people who needed a helping hand.

Why we were there

In an ongoing effort to combat food insecurity and hunger within the community, Alameda Food Bank recently partnered with my office (Windermere Bay Area Properties in Alameda) as part of the Windermere Community Service Day. This collaboration brought together our office to support the Alameda Food Bank in its mission to provide essential food resources to those in need. As serious as this topic is, our office still had fun working and learning how what’s accomplished here day in and day out makes a huge difference in the lives of many local Alameda people.

Karen Miller & Sharon Mancillas working hard to restock those veggies!

Front row (L-R): Karen Bierwith, Kathy Ratto. Karen Miller, Sharon Mancillas, and Peter Fletcher. Middle row (L-R): Dona Fuller, Hanna Fry, and Sally Anne Rudloff. Back row: Chris Curtis & Shannon Reese

Windermere Community Service Day

Windermere Bay Area Properties, a socially responsible organization, has a long-standing tradition of dedicating a day of work to serve the community. This annual event, known as Windermere Community Service Day, sees Windermere agents and staff participating in hands-on projects to support various community-based organizations. Over the years, Windermere has accumulated over one million hours of community service, reflecting its commitment to giving back to the communities where they live, work, and play.

Our Partnership with Alameda Food Bank

Catherine Bierwith, our Windermere Community Representative and fellow Realtor, expressed her enthusiasm for today’s event, stating, "We're delighted to have played a role in supporting the Alameda Food Bank. For the third consecutive year, we believe that dedicating our time to this cause allows us to make a significant impact on feeding as many people as possible. Through our collective efforts, individuals won't have to face the difficult decision between paying a bill or having a meal tonight."

Support the Alameda Food Bank

The Alameda Food Bank has been serving the Alameda community for 46 years as a non-profit organization. They provide food and other resources to families and individuals in need, offering support and compassion. Their food distribution center plays a crucial role in ensuring that those in need can access the necessary sustenance to feed themselves and their families. By addressing food needs, the Alameda Food Bank helps prevent homelessness and relieves the burden on families who would otherwise have to choose between basic necessities.

When we come together it is possible to chip away at food insecurity to ensure that individuals and families have access to the nourishment they need to thrive. To learn more about Alameda Food Bank, visit their website, and go here to learn more about Windermere’s commitment to social responsibility.

Getting Refreshed

Needing a break after volunteering, a few of us stopped at Alameda Point’s Almanac Beer for a beer and some tasty food. If you haven’t been yet, give this place a try the next time you're in the area!

Kathy Ratto and Sharon Mancillas sharing one of many laughs while soaking up the ambience of Almanac.

Peter Fletcher enjoying the sun and relaxation after our volunteer shift.

Having a laugh with Sharon

Sally takes a beer break with the crew!

Great local brewery at Alameda Point - give it a try if you’re in Alameda.

Giving back feels good, so why not try it yourself? Find a local organization that you feel passionately about and volunteer your time. It not only brings a sense of fulfillment but also makes a positive impact on those who are in need.