Finding community and making a difference
With a passion for nonprofit work, Cindy Hawdon focuses on giving back. After retiring from a career in commercial insurance, Cindy settled in Springfield and connected with Ozarks Food Harvest to help with a need she saw in the community.
“Recognizing the needs of nonprofits from my career, I focused on groups that assist with food insecurity,” Cindy shared. “I volunteered with members of the food [bank] network in other cities and sought to connect with Ozarks Food Harvest when I moved here. Volunteering has always been my plan for retirement.”
The Food Bank’s mission is close to Cindy’s heart.
“I know there are many areas where low-income families need services and assistance,” Cindy expressed. “Safe and healthy food is a necessity, and I believe every person should have access to food.”
Volunteering with us has been a positive experience, Cindy says, because of the feeling of community The Food Bank offers.
“I choose to volunteer with Ozarks Food Harvest because of the organization’s mission, but the people and atmosphere make it enjoyable,” Cindy shared.
The ability to volunteer has not only allowed Cindy to help others, but it has also made a positive impact on her life.
“By giving back, I can appreciate the life I have, and using my ability to help bless others, I can count my blessings,” Cindy said.
Join our community by scheduling a volunteeer session. Support your neighbors experiencing hunger and see changes in your own life as well. To learn more, visit ozarksfoodharvest.org/volunteer.