Couple Reaches 1,000 Hours of volunteer time
When Charley and Trudy Bowen moved to Springfield from Dixon to live closer to their three daughters, they knew they wanted to start volunteering somewhere right away. Since the couple had donated to Ozarks Food Harvest in the past, they decided to try volunteering.
After their first volunteer session in 2015, they knew they had found a new place to call home. Over the past five years, the Bowens have each provided 1,000 hours of volunteer time.
The couple has been married for nearly 43 years, and they enjoy volunteering together several times a week.
“We’ve always done everything together. Working here is just an extension of that,” Charley expressed.
Prior to retirement, the Bowens worked in Dixon’s public school system. Day after day, they saw children who were battling hunger. As volunteers at Ozarks Food Harvest, they know the food they pack will help children like those they worked with in Dixon.
“It makes us feel like we’re accomplishing something for the community, and it’s something that’s really needed,” Trudy said.
Over the years, the Bowens have developed many friendships with fellow volunteers. Their Wednesday morning group even gets together for lunch or dinner once a month.
“A lot of what keeps us coming back are the people. We’ve met some great ones and have made really good friends,” Trudy said.
The Bowens are a wonderful part of Ozarks Food Harvest’s volunteer family, and we are so thankful for their dedication to fighting hunger!
Want to volunteer with us and help hungry people in the Ozarks? Apply and create your schedule at ozarksfoodharvest.org/volunteer