Giving back for more than a decade

Don began volunteering at 360 Communities when he retired in 2008. He first volunteered with our Armful of Love holiday gift program but quickly branched out to support the Burnsville Resource Center and Food Shelf.

“Volunteering for 360 Communities is like a two-way street. You get way more back than you give,” says Don. 

Don appreciates the opportunity to connect with his neighbors and listen to their stories.

“I have worked both in the food shelf and as an intake person checking in our guests in the resource center. Both jobs have been rewarding for me,” says Don. “I do enjoy the checking-in process the most. It puts me face-to-face with real people who are undergoing real-life challenges.” 

He says he is not there to fix everything when people come in for help. “I understand my limitations, but just being there to listen and offer encouragement has been very gratifying for me,” says Don, “If I can make a person feel better when they leave than when they came in, I’ve done my job. The positive spirit of these folks facing so many of life’s hard challenges is both remarkable and inspiring.”

“Volunteering at 360 Communities has helped me to become more aware of the world around me, more aware of the good in people and the hope we all have for a better tomorrow for everyone.” Thanks for your service, Don!

If you would like to get involved like Don, fill out our volunteer interest form. Volunteering is rewarding.